Direct hospital-to-manufacturer transactions, digital tracking, and strict vendor curbs aim to boost transparency and patient safety
The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, has introduced sweeping reforms in its procurement system following a major scam linked to the Ayushman Bharat scheme. The scam allegedly involved misuse of funds through forged bills and records of deceased patients, prompting urgent corrective action by the institute.
Third-Party Vendors Eliminated from Procurement Chain
In a decisive move, PGIMER has removed third-party vendors from the procurement process of implants and medical consumables. The institute will now conduct all transactions related to surgeries and specialized treatments—especially under cashless schemes—directly with authorized manufacturers or through in-house pharmacies.
This shift is expected to eliminate the role of intermediaries who were previously linked to price manipulation and billing fraud.
Strict Ban on Vendor Interaction with Staff and Patients
To prevent undue influence and malpractice, the administration has strictly prohibited vendors from engaging directly with doctors, hospital staff, or patients. All procurement requirements will now be routed through a centralized internal system, ensuring better accountability and oversight.
Digital Indenting System to Replace Manual Records
PGIMER is transitioning to a secure online indenting system integrated with its Hospital Information System. This real-time digital platform will track every medication and implant issued, linking it directly to a patient’s ID and the treating consultant’s approval.
The move is aimed at eliminating loopholes in manual record-keeping and ensuring end-to-end transparency in procurement and distribution.
Measures to Prevent Medicine Resale and Fraud
To tackle the “resale of medicines” racket, the institute is increasing staff deployment to ensure that medicines and implants are delivered directly to patients at their bedsides. This eliminates the need for attendants to carry handwritten prescriptions to external pharmacies—a practice that had enabled the use of counterfeit stamps and forged documents.
A Step Towards Transparent and Patient-Centric Healthcare
With these reforms, PGIMER aims to restore trust, enhance patient safety, and set a benchmark in transparent healthcare delivery. The institute’s proactive approach reflects a broader push within India’s public healthcare system to plug systemic loopholes and ensure accountability in government-funded schemes.
