Etah Hospital Staff Suspended Amid Fake Medical Document Racket
Background of the Case
In a significant development, two hospital staff members in Etah have been suspended, while another is facing recommended dismissal following the exposure of a racket involving counterfeit X-ray reports and fraudulent medical certificates in government hospitals across three districts of Uttar Pradesh. This action comes in the wake of a sting operation that unveiled alleged bribery by hospital employees to falsify bone fractures in X-ray reports.
Details of the Investigation
The fraudulent activities were brought to light by an undercover investigation conducted by Dainik Bhaskar, revealing that fake medical documents were being generated in exchange for money. These documents were reportedly used to support false police cases, secure paid medical leave, and claim other benefits. In addition to the suspension and dismissal recommendations, a First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged against the three implicated employees.
Government Response
Following the alarming revelations, the state government issued three official orders for the suspension and dismissal of the involved staff members.
Actions Taken in Etah
In Etah, a staff nurse at Veerangana Laxmibai Lodhi Autonomous State Medical College was suspended immediately for allegedly participating in the falsification of fractures in X-ray reports for monetary gain. The medical college administration has also established a three-member inquiry committee tasked with submitting its report within three working days.
Consequences in Kasganj
In Kasganj, a staff nurse employed through a private agency has been recommended for termination after an inquiry revealed that he demanded Rs 10,000 to facilitate a fake fracture report during the sting operation. The Chief Medical Superintendent characterized this act as corruption and has formally recommended the cessation of his services.
Findings in Maharajganj
Authorities in Maharajganj have recommended stringent action and the suspension of an X-ray technician accused of generating false X-ray reports for financial compensation. A dedicated inquiry committee has been formed to conduct a comprehensive investigation into these allegations. This committee will be led by Chairperson Dr. Ashutosh Kumar, alongside members Dr. Rajeev Yadav and Dr. Rakesh Raman.
Inquiry Committee’s Mandate
The inquiry committee has been directed to thoroughly investigate the claims highlighted in the news report and ensure the submission of its findings within three working days. The order noted that during the sting operation, hospital staff were recorded negotiating bribe amounts and detailing methods to misrepresent intact bones as fractured in X-ray images. They also discussed the issuance of backdated medical certificates and suggested that such fraudulent reports would easily pass official scrutiny.
Investigation Locations
The investigation focused on district hospitals in Kasganj and Maharajganj, as well as Etah Medical College, following repeated complaints that fracture cases were being manipulated within government healthcare facilities.