Inspection of 21 UP private hospitals uncovers irregularities, notices issued to 6

Lucknow: Inspections at 21 private hospitals empanelled under government healthcare schemes in Lucknow and Gonda have uncovered alleged billing irregularities, improper ICU admissions and deficiencies in essential medical and safety facilities. Following the inspections, the State Health Agency (SACHIS) issued notices to six hospitals in Lucknow. 

The inspections were conducted by SACHIS teams on Tuesday and reportedly found instances in which patients with minor ailments were allegedly shown as ICU admissions to claim higher reimbursements.

Officials also received complaints of hospitals collecting money from patients despite their empanelment under cashless healthcare schemes and operating without the required specialist doctors. 

In Gonda, inspection teams visited 15 empanelled hospitals and identified gaps in biomedical waste management and infection control at some facilities. One hospital was found to be operating without a pathology laboratory or an arrangement with an accredited laboratory for diagnostic testing.  

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Another facility was found to have its operation theatre and intensive care unit located in the basement, while records detailing its fire safety equipment were unavailable during the inspection.   

The teams also received complaints alleging the use of substandard implants under the State Employees’ Cashless Medical Scheme, raising further concerns about the quality of care being provided at empanelled facilities.  

SACHIS has initiated the process of seeking explanations from the hospitals concerned. The agency will decide on further action after examining their responses.

“The process of seeking explanations from the hospitals concerned has begun. Further action, including fines, removal from the scheme or legal proceedings, will depend on their responses,” Verma said. Hindustan Times reported.  

The proposed action could include financial penalties, removal from the empanelled hospital network or legal proceedings, depending on the findings and the explanations submitted by the facilities.