A major financial irregularity has surfaced in a civic-run hospital under the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, where four staff members have been accused of manipulating billing records and siphoning off lakhs of rupees. The case has raised serious concerns over financial oversight in municipal healthcare facilities.
Fraud Detected During Routine Verification at Prabhakar Malhar Kute Memorial Hospital
The alleged scam came to light during a routine verification process at Prabhakar Malhar Kute Memorial Hospital. Officials discovered discrepancies in billing records, triggering an internal investigation.
According to preliminary findings, the accused staff issued inflated bills to patients while maintaining lower amounts on carbon copies. This allowed them to pocket the difference without immediate detection. Authorities estimate that around ₹9.25 lakh was siphoned off over a period of time.
How the Scam Was Uncovered
Medical Superintendent Dr. Balasaheb Hodgar revealed that the fraud surfaced when a patient was found holding two different bills but had paid only one. Upon verification of receipts, inconsistencies emerged, prompting deeper scrutiny.
An inquiry has been initiated, and notices have been issued to one permanent employee and three contractual staff allegedly involved in the fraud.
Similar Irregularities Found in Bhosari Hospital
Following the discovery, PCMC officials conducted inspections at other civic hospitals. A similar pattern of suspected financial misconduct was identified at a hospital in Bhosari, indicating that the issue may be more widespread than initially thought.
Audit Underway, Strict Action Expected
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Laxman Gophane confirmed that a detailed audit is currently underway. The final report will be submitted to the general administration department, and strict action will be taken based on the findings.
Not an Isolated Incident
This is not the first time such irregularities have been reported in PCMC hospitals.
- In December 2024, staff at Jijamata Hospital were found involved in misappropriating patient payments.
- In November 2023, a contractual employee at Yashwantrao Chavan Memorial Hospital used fake receipts to underreport collections and siphon funds.
The recurring nature of such fraud cases has raised questions about internal controls and monitoring mechanisms within civic healthcare institutions.
