New Delhi : In order to check the malpractice of patients submitting false certificates to get free diagnostic tests or surgeries done, the AIIMS has launched an online verification system for poor patients who are exempt from paying charges.

The move, AIIMS authorities said, is aimed at bringing in more transparency and keeping a track of the BPL card holders seeking free services and treatment.

According to the authorities, there have been instances in the recent past where patients have resorted to fraudulent means and ways to avail themselves of facilities like genetic tests, hormone profiling, MRI, CT scan etc which are offered free of cost to the people belonging to BPL category. Some services are also provided at subsidized rates.

"There have been several cases where the facility has been abused by patients and their family members. They show false BPL cards and avail diagnostic and treatment facilities free of cost. However, as part of the new initiative we have started tracking the BPL card numbers for the purpose of verification," said Dr Deepak Aggarwal, In-Charge of the IT wing at AIIMS.

According to Aggarwal, the verification of patients falling under BPL category was being done manually, under which it was difficult to keep track of all the patients availing free services.

"Also, it was a tedious, time consuming process. The online verification process is fast, more accurate and transparent," said Aggarwal.

Patients have to show their BPL cards for the data entry. Those who do not have BPL cards but are poor will need to submit affidavits declaring they are below poverty level.

"Patients' Aadhaar card number is being captured to track these patents in a better way," he added. PLB SK PVI