The Doctors Post

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  • West Bengal Health Panel Probes Four Private Hospitals Over Alleged Insurance Billing Fraud

    West Bengal Health Panel Probes Four Private Hospitals Over Alleged Insurance Billing Fraud

    The West Bengal Clinical Establishment Regulatory Commission has initiated an inquiry into allegations of fraudulent billing practices at four private hospitals following a complaint from a private insurance company. The insurer alleged unnecessary hospital admissions, prolonged hospital stays, manipulation of medical records, and inflated billing, prompting the Commission to examine the matter as a broader issue affecting healthcare billing practices.

    Insurance Company Flags Alleged Billing Irregularities

    According to the Commission, the written complaint names four private hospitals—one in Kolkata, one in Durgapur, and two in Siliguri. The insurer submitted four sample cases alleging fraudulent transactions, and all the hospitals have since filed written responses to the allegations.

    The Commission stated that although the hospitals responded only to the specific bills cited in the complaint, the matter would be examined as a wider issue concerning billing practices in private healthcare institutions.

    Allegations Include Unnecessary Admissions and Inflated Bills

    The insurance company alleged that patients were admitted despite there being no medical necessity, while some hospital stays were extended beyond the clinically required duration.

    It also alleged that single surgical procedures were divided into multiple bills to increase reimbursement amounts and that medical records were altered to justify the billing pattern submitted to the insurer.

    The Commission is examining these allegations as part of its inquiry.

    Commission Orders Refund in Separate Insurance Dispute

    In a related matter, the Commission directed a private hospital in Kolkata to refund ₹58,000 to a patient who had paid the amount after the insurer declined to settle a portion of the hospital bill.

    The hospital argued that the insurer had wrongly rejected the claim. However, the Commission held that any dispute regarding the rejected amount should have been resolved directly with the insurance company rather than recovering the amount from the insured patient.

    Commission Questions Recovery from Patient

    The Commission also heard another complaint involving a patient whose surgery cost exceeded more than twice the original estimate. Although the patient had health insurance coverage of ₹5 lakh, the hospital billed ₹4.21 lakh, of which the insurer approved only ₹2.64 lakh.

    Questioning the hospital’s approach, the Commission observed that charges disallowed by the insurer should not have been recovered from the patient. The hospital maintained that the insurer had incorrectly rejected part of the claim.

    The Commission is continuing its examination of the complaints and the hospitals’ responses.

    Important Highlights

    • The West Bengal Clinical Establishment Regulatory Commission is probing four private hospitals over alleged insurance billing irregularities.
    • The insurer alleged unnecessary admissions, prolonged hospitalisation, inflated billing, and manipulation of medical records.
    • All four hospitals have submitted written replies to the Commission.
    • In a separate case, the Commission directed a Kolkata hospital to refund ₹58,000 recovered from a patient after an insurance claim was partially rejected.
    • The Commission has questioned hospitals for recovering disputed insurance amounts directly from insured patients instead of pursuing the matter with the insurer.
  • FAIMA Backs Maharashtra Doctors’ Protest, Urges Government to Halt CCMP-BHMS Registration with MMC

    FAIMA Backs Maharashtra Doctors’ Protest, Urges Government to Halt CCMP-BHMS Registration with MMC

    The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) has extended its support to the Central Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) over its statewide withdrawal of routine medical services from August 5, 2026. The association has urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to immediately halt the proposed registration of Certificate Course in Modern Pharmacology (CCMP)-certified BHMS practitioners with the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC), expressing concerns over patient safety and the institutionalisation of cross-practice.

    FAIMA Extends Support to Doctors’ Protest

    In a letter dated August 5, 2026, addressed to the Chief Minister, FAIMA expressed its full support for Central MARD’s decision to undertake a statewide withdrawal of routine medical services.

    The association stated that the protest followed repeated representations, discussions, and attempts at constructive dialogue with the authorities, which failed to resolve the concerns raised by the medical fraternity.

    According to FAIMA, the decision to protest was adopted as a peaceful and democratic measure after other avenues had been exhausted.

    Concerns Raised Over CCMP Registration and Cross-Practice

    FAIMA reiterated the concerns raised by Central MARD regarding the proposed registration of CCMP-certified BHMS practitioners with the Maharashtra Medical Council and the introduction of policies that could facilitate cross-practice.

    The association stated that permitting practitioners to work beyond the scope of their formally recognised training could compromise evidence-based medical practice, affect patient safety, and weaken public confidence in the healthcare system.

    It clarified that its objections were not directed against any recognised system of medicine but against the proposed integration of different systems in a manner that, according to the association, could pose risks to patient welfare.

    Demands Placed Before the State Government

    FAIMA urged the Maharashtra Government to immediately suspend the proposed registration of CCMP-certified BHMS practitioners with the Maharashtra Medical Council until the matter is appropriately addressed.

    The association also sought a clear assurance that no administrative or regulatory mechanism would be used to legitimise cross-practice beyond the legally recognised scope of any system of medicine.

    In addition, FAIMA called for meaningful discussions with Central MARD and other representatives of the medical fraternity to resolve the ongoing concerns, including long-pending issues affecting resident doctors.

    Background to the Dispute

    The controversy began after the Maharashtra Government initiated the process of granting Maharashtra Medical Council registration to BHMS practitioners who had completed the Certificate Course in Modern Pharmacology.

    The proposal was opposed by allopathic doctors’ organisations, which argued that it could blur statutory boundaries between recognised systems of medicine and raise concerns regarding patient safety.

    Subsequently, the State Government constituted a six-member committee to define the competencies, ethical framework, and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for negligence cases involving CCMP-certified BHMS practitioners proposed to be registered with the Maharashtra Medical Council. The committee has been directed to submit its recommendations within one month.

    FAIMA Calls for Early Resolution

    FAIMA urged the Chief Minister to reconsider the proposed policy, engage with stakeholders, and take timely action to resolve the ongoing impasse.

    The association stated that an early and decisive intervention by the State Government would help restore confidence in the healthcare system while addressing the concerns raised by the medical community.

    Important Highlights

    • FAIMA has supported Central MARD’s statewide withdrawal of routine medical services from August 5, 2026.
    • The association has urged the Maharashtra Government to halt the proposed MMC registration of CCMP-certified BHMS practitioners.
    • FAIMA expressed concerns that cross-practice could affect patient safety and the integrity of evidence-based medicine.
    • The association has called for meaningful dialogue with medical organisations and a resolution of pending issues affecting resident doctors.
    • The Maharashtra Government has already constituted a committee to examine the competencies and regulatory framework for CCMP-certified BHMS practitioners.
  • Punjab and Haryana High Court Upholds Haryana Policy on In-Service Quota for MD/MS Admissions

    Punjab and Haryana High Court Upholds Haryana Policy on In-Service Quota for MD/MS Admissions

    The Punjab and Haryana High Court has upheld the Haryana Government’s September 2024 policy allowing all in-service government doctors to apply for admission to MD/MS courses under the 40% in-service quota, even if they have not completed two years of service in rural or remote areas. The Court held that the State has the authority to prescribe eligibility conditions for admissions under the in-service quota and that the policy is aimed at strengthening healthcare services in rural and difficult areas.

    Challenge to the Policy Rejected

    The Haryana Government’s September 2024 policy permits all in-service government doctors to apply for postgraduate medical admissions under the 40% in-service quota, irrespective of whether they have completed two years of service in rural or remote areas.

    A group of doctors challenged the policy, arguing that only those who had completed the mandatory rural, remote, or difficult area service should be eligible to compete under the in-service quota for MD/MS admissions.

    Rejecting the challenge, the High Court held that the State is competent to create a separate admission channel for in-service doctors and determine the eligibility criteria governing such admissions.

    Court Upholds State’s Objective

    The Court observed that the policy seeks to enable government-employed MBBS doctors to obtain postgraduate qualifications so that they can provide improved specialist healthcare services, particularly in rural and difficult areas.

    The Bench noted that the policy requires in-service doctors who have not completed rural service to execute a bond undertaking to serve the State Government for a minimum of five years in rural, remote, or difficult areas after acquiring their postgraduate qualification.

    According to the Court, this condition adequately advances the policy’s objective of strengthening healthcare delivery in underserved regions.

    Different Treatment for Two Categories of Doctors Found Valid

    The High Court also examined the distinction made between two categories of in-service doctors under the policy.

    Doctors who have already completed two years of service in rural, remote, or difficult areas are permitted to pursue postgraduate studies while continuing to receive their salary and other service benefits. In contrast, doctors who have not completed the required rural service are allowed to pursue postgraduate education without salary, although their continuity of service is maintained.

    The Court held that this classification is based on an intelligible differentia and bears a direct nexus with the objective of encouraging service in rural and difficult areas while improving the availability of specialist doctors.

    Court Refers to Earlier Government Notification

    The Bench also referred to the Haryana Government’s January 2018 notification, under which 46 blocks across various districts were identified as remote or difficult areas for providing incentives and other benefits to government doctors.

    The Court found no constitutional infirmity, manifest arbitrariness, or illegality in the September 2024 policy and dismissed the challenge to its validity.

    Important Highlights

    • The Punjab and Haryana High Court has upheld Haryana’s September 2024 policy on the 40% in-service quota for MD/MS admissions.
    • The policy allows all in-service government doctors to apply, even without completing two years of rural or remote service.
    • Doctors who have not completed rural service must execute a bond to serve for five years in rural, remote, or difficult areas after completing their postgraduate course.
    • The Court held that the State has the authority to prescribe eligibility conditions for admissions under the in-service quota.
    • The Bench ruled that the distinction between doctors who have completed rural service and those who have not is legally valid and supports the policy’s objective.
  • Pregnant Woman, Unborn Child Die During Treatment at Nagpur Hospital; Family Alleges Medical Negligence

    Pregnant Woman, Unborn Child Die During Treatment at Nagpur Hospital; Family Alleges Medical Negligence

    Allegations of medical negligence have emerged after a six-month pregnant woman and her unborn child died during treatment at a private hospital in Nagpur, Maharashtra. The incident triggered protests by the grieving family, prompting police to initiate an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

    Woman Admitted With Severe Abdominal Pain

    According to reports, the woman, a resident of Bidipeth, was admitted to Sukhkarta Hospital at around 3 am on Saturday after complaining of severe abdominal pain.

    Her family alleged that her condition worsened on Sunday afternoon. They claimed that despite repeated requests, no senior doctor attended to her and that treatment was provided only by the nursing staff.

    Family Alleges Delay in Specialist Care

    The relatives alleged that timely intervention by a specialist could have saved both the woman and her unborn child.

    According to the family, when her condition became critical, she was referred to Yash Hospital in Dighori. However, doctors at the hospital reportedly declared both the woman and the foetus dead upon examination.

    Protest Erupts Outside Hospital

    Following the deaths, family members and relatives brought the woman’s body to Sukhkarta Hospital and staged a protest on the hospital premises.

    The protesters raised slogans against the hospital administration, alleging medical negligence and demanding strict action against those responsible. The demonstration led to tense scenes outside the hospital before personnel from Hudkeshwar Police arrived and brought the situation under control.

    Police Launch Inquiry

    Police officials assured the family that their complaint would be investigated thoroughly.

    According to the police, the inquiry will be conducted based on the family’s complaint, medical records, and other available evidence. They stated that appropriate legal action would be initiated if the investigation establishes any instance of medical negligence.

    At the time of reporting, the management of Sukhkarta Hospital had not issued an official statement regarding the allegations.

    Community Demands Fair Investigation

    The incident has sparked concern among local residents, with many calling for a fair and impartial investigation to establish the facts and ensure accountability if negligence is found.

    The outcome of the police inquiry will determine whether any legal action is warranted against the hospital or those involved in the patient’s treatment.

    Important Highlights

    • A six-month pregnant woman and her unborn child died during treatment at a private hospital in Nagpur.
    • The family alleged that no senior doctor attended to the patient despite her deteriorating condition.
    • The woman was later referred to another hospital, where both she and the foetus were declared dead.
    • Family members staged a protest outside the hospital, alleging medical negligence and demanding action.
    • Police have launched an inquiry and said further legal action will depend on the findings of the investigation.
  • J&K Government Orders Probe Into Alleged ₹79.13 Lakh Excess Salary Paid to Retired Physician

    J&K Government Orders Probe Into Alleged ₹79.13 Lakh Excess Salary Paid to Retired Physician

    The Jammu and Kashmir Government has constituted a three-member Fact-Finding Committee to investigate the alleged excess payment of ₹79.13 lakh in salary and allowances to a retired physician following an incorrect entry of his date of superannuation in official service records. The inquiry will examine how the error occurred, identify those responsible, and recommend appropriate action in accordance with law.

    Inquiry Ordered Over Incorrect Superannuation Record

    According to Government Order No. 600-JK(HME) of 2026, issued by the Health and Medical Education Department on August 3, the retired physician allegedly continued to receive salary and allowances beyond his actual retirement date because his date of superannuation was mistakenly recorded as February 28, 2018, instead of February 28, 2013.

    The department estimated that the excess payments made between March 1, 2013, and October 30, 2017, amounted to ₹79,13,762. It clarified that the final liability, if any, will be determined after completion of the inquiry.

    Three-Member Committee Constituted

    The Government has tasked the Fact-Finding Committee with establishing the circumstances that led to the incorrect recording of the physician’s retirement date and identifying the officers or officials responsible for the lapse.

    The committee will be headed by Suhail Hussain Tantray, Additional Secretary (Law), Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir. Aaliya Iftikhar, Chief Accounts Officer, and Ashiq Hussain, Assistant Accounts Officer, both from the Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir, have been appointed as members.

    Committee to Examine Administrative Lapses

    The committee will review all relevant official records and provide an opportunity to all concerned parties to present their views before arriving at its findings.

    It will also examine the procedural and administrative lapses that allegedly allowed the officer to continue in service beyond his actual retirement date and fix responsibility wherever required.

    Report to Be Submitted Within 30 Days

    The Health and Medical Education Department has directed the committee to submit its report, along with detailed findings and recommendations, to the Administrative Department within 30 days from the date of issuance of the Government Order.

    The report is expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged excess payment and recommend further action, if warranted, under the applicable legal provisions.

    Important Highlights

    • The Jammu and Kashmir Government has constituted a three-member committee to investigate the alleged excess payment of ₹79.13 lakh to a retired physician.
    • The inquiry relates to an incorrect entry that reportedly recorded the physician’s retirement date as February 28, 2018, instead of February 28, 2013.
    • The alleged excess payments were made between March 1, 2013, and October 30, 2017.
    • The committee will investigate the circumstances leading to the error, examine administrative lapses, and identify officials responsible.
    • The panel has been directed to submit its report with findings and recommendations within 30 days.
  • Rajasthan Government Ayurveda Hospital Left Without Doctors, Healthcare Services Hit in Beawar

    Rajasthan Government Ayurveda Hospital Left Without Doctors, Healthcare Services Hit in Beawar

    A government Ayurveda hospital in Rajasthan’s Beawar district has reportedly been left without a single doctor, disrupting healthcare services and affecting access to treatment for residents of nearby villages. The hospital, which houses the district’s only Panchakarma Centre, has been unable to provide routine medical services, forcing patients to travel nearly 50 kilometres to Beawar for treatment.

    All Medical Officer Posts Vacant

    The ‘A’ category Government Ayurveda Hospital located in Jhutha village of Raipur tehsil has three sanctioned posts for medical officers. However, despite all posts being sanctioned, the hospital currently has no doctor available to provide clinical services.

    According to the available information, two doctors were recently transferred by the Rajasthan Government, while another doctor posted at the hospital is on long leave. Although a new doctor has reportedly been posted, the official has not yet assumed charge.

    Panchakarma Centre Yet to Become Operational

    The shortage of medical personnel has also affected the functioning of the hospital’s recently approved modern Panchakarma Centre, which remains non-operational.

    The facility is the only Panchakarma Centre in Beawar district, and the absence of doctors has limited access to specialised Ayurveda therapies for patients across the region.

    Public Health Programmes Also Affected

    Apart from outpatient services, the hospital implements several government health initiatives, including the Ayushman Arogya Mandir and Adarsh Ayushman Gram Yojana programmes.

    These programmes provide free health check-ups, disease screening, and public health outreach activities. However, the reported shortage of doctors has adversely affected the implementation of these services as well.

    Residents Seek Immediate Appointment of Doctors

    Residents have expressed concern that despite the availability of hospital infrastructure, medical facilities, and government schemes, the absence of doctors has rendered the healthcare services ineffective.

    As a result, patients, including elderly persons, women, and children, are reportedly travelling long distances to Beawar for even basic medical consultations and treatment.

    Villagers have urged the Rajasthan Government and the Department of Ayurveda to appoint permanent doctors without delay and ensure that deputed medical officers provide regular services. They have also warned that they may launch a public agitation if healthcare services at the hospital are not restored promptly.

    Important Highlights

    • A Government Ayurveda Hospital in Beawar district has reportedly been left without a single doctor.
    • The hospital houses the district’s only Panchakarma Centre, which remains non-operational due to a shortage of medical staff.
    • Two doctors were transferred, while another is on long leave, leaving all clinical services affected.
    • Government health programmes, including Ayushman Arogya Mandir and Adarsh Ayushman Gram Yojana, have also reportedly been impacted.
    • Residents have demanded the immediate appointment of permanent doctors and warned of a public agitation if the issue remains unresolved.
  • Nellore Hospital, Cardiologist Directed to Pay ₹99 Lakh Compensation in Medical Negligence Case

    Nellore Hospital, Cardiologist Directed to Pay ₹99 Lakh Compensation in Medical Negligence Case

    The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (DCDRC), Kakinada, has directed a Nellore-based hospital and its cardiologist to pay ₹99 lakh in compensation to the family of a patient who died during treatment. The Commission held that the hospital and the treating doctor failed to justify administering dialysis to a patient with serious cardiac complications and found them liable for medical negligence.

    Consumer Commission Awards ₹99 Lakh Compensation

    Allowing the complaint in part, the Commission directed the hospital and the cardiologist to jointly and severally pay ₹99 lakh as compensation to the complainants.

    Out of the total compensation, ₹50 lakh has been earmarked for the deceased patient’s minor daughter. The Commission ordered that the amount be deposited in a fixed deposit in her name until she attains majority. It further permitted the child’s mother, as the natural guardian, to withdraw only the accrued interest periodically for the minor’s education, maintenance, and welfare.

    The Commission also awarded ₹10,000 towards litigation costs and directed the opposite parties to comply with the order within 45 days. Failing compliance, the awarded amount will carry interest at 9% per annum thereafter.

    Allegations of Negligent Treatment

    According to the complaint, the patient was admitted to the hospital on February 28, 2025, and was initially in a stable condition. The complainant alleged that the hospital and the treating doctor failed to properly diagnose the patient’s condition and administered inappropriate treatment, including dialysis despite the patient suffering from serious cardiac complications.

    It was further alleged that the patient’s condition deteriorated following the treatment, resulting in his death on March 2, 2025.

    The complainant also accused the hospital and the doctor of issuing false and manipulated medical records, failing to provide a proper explanation for the patient’s deteriorating condition, and giving evasive replies when questioned about the treatment. Seeking compensation for the loss of the family’s earning member, the complainant claimed ₹99 lakh as compensation, reimbursement of ₹3 lakh paid towards treatment, and litigation costs.

    Hospital Denied Negligence

    The hospital and the treating cardiologist denied all allegations of medical negligence and deficiency in service. They contended that the patient had been admitted in a critical condition with multiple co-morbidities, including uncontrolled diabetes, renal complications, and cardiac illness.

    According to the hospital, the treatment was provided in accordance with accepted medical protocols and dialysis was medically indicated and performed under expert supervision. The opposite parties also denied allegations of fabricated records, wrongful treatment, coercion, and suppression of facts.

    They further argued that the complainant had failed to produce expert medical evidence to establish negligence and relied on judicial precedents, including Jacob Mathew v. State of Punjab, Kusum Sharma v. Batra Hospital, Martin F. D’Souza v. Mohd. Ishfaq, and Dr. Neeraj Sood v. Jaswinder Singh, to submit that the death of a patient alone does not constitute medical negligence.

    Commission Finds Gaps in Hospital Records

    After examining the material on record, the Commission observed that the patient had been diagnosed with “Acute AWMI with Severe LVD,” indicating serious cardiac complications.

    The Commission also noted that the hospital failed to produce the complete medical case sheet of the patient. During cross-examination, the hospital’s own witness admitted that only progress notes and nursing notes had been produced, while important records such as admission notes, ICU charts, dialysis requisitions, nephrology and cardiology consultation records, investigation reports, consent forms, dialysis monitoring charts, medication charts, treatment protocols, and death records were not placed before the Commission.

    Questions Raised Over Dialysis Decision

    The Commission further observed that although the hospital claimed to have followed accepted medical standards, it relied on an ECG report relating to a period before the patient’s admission instead of producing a contemporaneous cardiac evaluation conducted during hospitalisation.

    It noted that no satisfactory explanation was provided for relying on the pre-admission ECG report, creating serious doubts regarding the adequacy of the patient’s assessment before administering critical treatment.

    During cross-examination, the hospital’s witness also admitted that, as per ICMR norms, dialysis should not be administered in cases of heart stroke. The witness, however, acknowledged that the patient had undergone dialysis twice.

    The Commission also took note of the allegation that dialysis had been performed without the advice of the treating nephrologist. Although the witness denied the allegation, he admitted that no document recommending dialysis by the nephrologist on February 28, 2025, had been produced before the Commission.

    Important Highlights

    • DCDRC, Kakinada directed a Nellore-based hospital and its cardiologist to pay ₹99 lakh compensation in a medical negligence case.
    • The Commission held that the hospital failed to justify administering dialysis to a patient with serious cardiac complications.
    • ₹50 lakh of the compensation has been reserved for the deceased patient’s minor daughter in a fixed deposit until she attains majority.
    • The Commission noted that the hospital failed to produce the complete medical records of the patient during the proceedings.
    • The hospital and doctor have been given 45 days to comply with the order, failing which the compensation will carry interest at 9% per annum.
  • Bihar Directs District Hospitals to Audit Maternity Equipment, Bridge Gaps in Delivery Care

    Bihar Directs District Hospitals to Audit Maternity Equipment, Bridge Gaps in Delivery Care

    The Bihar Health Department has directed all district hospitals to assess the availability of equipment in obstetrics and gynaecology operation theatres and Labour, Delivery and Recovery (LDR) complexes to strengthen maternal and newborn healthcare services. The initiative aims to identify equipment shortages, ensure timely procurement, and improve the quality of maternity care across government health facilities.

    District Hospitals Asked to Assess Equipment Availability

    Civil surgeons and hospital administrators have been instructed to review the availability of medical equipment against the benchmarks prescribed under the Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS).

    Hospitals have been asked to identify equipment gaps and submit procurement requests for urgently required items to ensure uninterrupted delivery and surgical services.

    Procurement to Be Processed Through EMMS–e-Upkaran Portal

    The State Health Society has directed that all procurement requests be submitted through the Bihar Medical Services and Infrastructure Corporation Limited’s online portal, EMMS–e-Upkaran.

    According to the department, routing all requests through the portal is expected to streamline procurement, strengthen supply chain management, and prevent last-minute shortages of essential medical equipment.

    Focus on Essential Maternal Healthcare Equipment

    The audit covers critical equipment used in obstetric and gynaecological care, including operation tables, anaesthesia workstations, electrical suction machines, flash autoclaves, 12-channel ECG machines, and foetal dopplers.

    Each district hospital has been instructed to prepare a detailed inventory of available equipment, identify deficiencies, and complete the exercise within the prescribed timeline.

    Initiative Aims to Improve Maternal and Newborn Care

    Health Minister Nishant Kumar said the initiative forms part of the state’s broader efforts to promote safe motherhood and strengthen maternal healthcare services.

    He stated that better-equipped government hospitals would improve the quality of delivery services, reduce maternal and neonatal mortality, strengthen obstetric and gynaecological care, and minimise the need for referring patients to higher healthcare centres.

    The Health Department expects the initiative to ensure more reliable and high-quality maternity care for pregnant women across Bihar through improved infrastructure and equipment availability.

    Important Highlights

    • Bihar has directed district hospitals to audit equipment in obstetrics and gynaecology operation theatres and LDR complexes.
    • Hospitals must assess equipment availability as per Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS) and identify deficiencies.
    • Procurement requests will be processed through the EMMS–e-Upkaran portal to streamline supply and prevent shortages.
    • The audit includes essential equipment such as operation tables, anaesthesia workstations, ECG machines, and foetal dopplers.
    • The initiative aims to improve maternal and newborn care, promote safe motherhood, and reduce maternal and neonatal mortality.
  • Bombay High Court Seeks Staff, Patient Data from Government Hospitals Across Vidarbha

    Bombay High Court Seeks Staff, Patient Data from Government Hospitals Across Vidarbha

    The Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court has directed the authorities to submit detailed information on patient footfall and the availability of attendants, nurses, and support staff in government hospitals across 10 districts of Vidarbha. The order expands the court’s scrutiny of patient care facilities beyond Nagpur as part of an ongoing suo motu public interest litigation (PIL) concerning deficiencies in patient assistance services.

    PIL Originated Over Shortage of Patient Support Staff

    The directions were issued during the hearing of a suo motu PIL initiated after reports highlighted a shortage of attendants for moving stretchers and wheelchairs at Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Nagpur.

    The reports indicated that seriously ill, disabled, and vulnerable patients were being left without adequate assistance because of insufficient support staff at the hospital.

    High Court Expands Scope of Proceedings

    A division bench comprising Justices Anil Kilor and Raj Wakode observed that the issue required examination across government hospitals in the Vidarbha region and expanded the scope of the proceedings beyond Nagpur.

    The court had earlier taken suo motu cognisance of the reports regarding deficiencies in patient assistance services and appointed Isha Thakre as amicus curiae to assist in the matter.

    Hospitals Across Vidarbha Added as Respondents

    During the hearing, the bench directed that government hospitals in all Vidarbha districts, except Wardha, be impleaded as respondents.

    The hospitals include Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Nagpur, Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital (IGGMCH), popularly known as Mayo Hospital, and government hospitals in the remaining nine districts of the region.

    Court Seeks Details on Manpower and Patient Load

    The High Court has directed the authorities to submit details of the average daily patient footfall at each hospital, along with the number of attendants, nurses, and other support personnel deployed for patient care.

    The bench stated that the information would enable the court to assess whether the existing workforce is adequate to manage the patient load and evaluate the quality of services being provided in government hospitals.

    The matter has been listed for further hearing after three weeks, when the court will review the information submitted by the authorities and consider further directions.

    Important Highlights

    • The Bombay High Court has sought details of patient footfall and staffing in government hospitals across 10 districts of Vidarbha.
    • The directions were issued during a suo motu PIL concerning shortages of patient support staff at GMCH, Nagpur.
    • Government hospitals across Vidarbha, except those in Wardha district, have been added as respondents.
    • Authorities have been asked to provide data on attendants, nurses, support staff, and average daily patient load.
    • The matter will be heard again after three weeks following submission of the required information.
  • Odisha Orders Stricter Inspections of Ultrasound Clinics to Strengthen PCPNDT Act Enforcement

    Odisha Orders Stricter Inspections of Ultrasound Clinics to Strengthen PCPNDT Act Enforcement

    The Odisha Government has directed stricter inspections of ultrasound clinics and intensified monitoring in districts with poor sex ratios at birth to strengthen the implementation of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act (PCPNDT Act). The decision was taken during a meeting of the State Supervisory Board chaired by Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling at Lok Seva Bhawan.

    State Focuses on Improving Sex Ratio at Birth

    The meeting reviewed measures to improve the state’s sex ratio at birth (SRB), with the Health Minister emphasising the need for focused interventions in districts reporting poor performance.

    Mukesh Mahaling directed authorities to strengthen district-level monitoring committees and conduct more rigorous and frequent inspections of ultrasound clinics to ensure strict compliance with the PCPNDT Act.

    He stated that improving the sex ratio would require strict enforcement of the law, community participation, coordinated action by multiple departments, and greater emphasis on public awareness campaigns.

    Digital Measures Enhance Monitoring

    The State Supervisory Board also reviewed Odisha’s progress in adopting technology-driven measures for implementing the PCPNDT Act.

    The state has introduced online registration and renewal of ultrasound facilities, digital Form-F reporting, coordination with the Odisha Council of Medical Registration (OCMR) for verification of registered medical practitioners, and authentication of beneficiaries through their ABHA registration.

    According to officials, these initiatives have improved transparency, accountability, and the overall monitoring of ultrasound facilities across the state.

    Enforcement Action Reviewed

    The Board reviewed enforcement measures taken between 2024 and 2026, during which district authorities conducted 649 inspections and state authorities carried out 11 inspections.

    The enforcement drive resulted in six illegal ultrasound clinics being sealed, six ultrasound machines being seized, FIRs being registered, and disciplinary action being initiated against government doctors.

    Underperforming Districts Directed to Intensify Monitoring

    During the review of district-wise sex ratio at birth data, Jajpur emerged as the best-performing district.

    Nayagarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Ganjam, and Khurda recorded the lowest sex ratio at birth figures. Authorities in these districts have been directed to intensify monitoring, ensure 100 per cent verification of Form-F records, and conduct extensive awareness campaigns to improve the sex ratio at birth.

    Important Highlights

    • Odisha has ordered stricter inspections of ultrasound clinics to strengthen enforcement of the PCPNDT Act.
    • The decision was taken during a State Supervisory Board meeting chaired by Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling.
    • The state has implemented online registration, digital Form-F reporting, OCMR verification, and ABHA-based beneficiary authentication.
    • Between 2024 and 2026, authorities conducted 660 inspections, sealed six illegal ultrasound clinics, seized six ultrasound machines, and initiated disciplinary action against government doctors.
    • Nayagarh, Angul, Dhenkanal, Ganjam, and Khurda have been directed to intensify monitoring and awareness efforts to improve the sex ratio at birth.