Dehradun. Claims of free and quality treatment under the Ayushman Bharat scheme came under scrutiny on Tuesday after a surprise inspection exposed several irregularities in private hospitals in Dehradun. The inspection was carried out by a team led by Director Claims Dr. Saroj Naithani. Team members included Dr. Apoorva, Pankaj, Puneet and Naveen Chamoli.
During the inspection, the team visited Arihant Hospital, Hans Dialysis Centre, Baluni Hospital, Rahi Netralaya and Ojaswi Hospital. Several shortcomings were found in the functioning of these hospitals, following which notices were issued.
At Arihant Hospital, the six-bed dialysis centre was found operating in poor condition inside a small room. The inspection team also observed the absence of regular doctor supervision, while nursing staff reportedly lacked adequate knowledge of dialysis procedures. Considering the matter serious, officials issued a show-cause notice to the hospital.
At Hans Dialysis Centre, inspectors found that services were not being utilised as expected. Officials also noted a major lack of IEC (Information, Education and Communication) activities to spread awareness among patients about the Ayushman scheme.
During inspection at Ojaswi Hospital, only four patients were admitted, including two patients brought from Udham Singh Nagar under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. Officials found that two patients had allegedly been admitted unnecessarily to the ICU, raising suspicion of misuse of the scheme.
At Baluni Hospital, the team found a case in which a beneficiary was allegedly charged Rs 17,250 despite treatment being completely free under the Ayushman scheme. Officials indicated that a departmental inquiry may be initiated into the matter. The inspection team also reviewed facilities at Rahi Netralaya and said a detailed report was being prepared.
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Officials warned that negligence, irregularities or violation of patient rights under the Ayushman Bharat scheme would not be tolerated. They also indicated that such inspections would be intensified and strict action would be taken against hospitals found guilty of violations.
