Rajasthan Health Department Expands Audit to Bharatpur Following Sikar Suspensions
In a significant move to combat alleged fraud, the Rajasthan health department has launched a comprehensive audit in Bharatpur district. This action comes just one day after seven government doctors were suspended in Sikar for their involvement in irregularities related to the Rajasthan Govt Health Scheme (RGHS). The audit aims to identify employees suspected of misusing the scheme, with a particular focus on the misuse of beneficiary cards and potential collusion among staff at government health facilities.
Focus on Staff and Beneficiary Misuse
Officials have stated that the scrutiny is centered on the suspected misuse of RGHS beneficiary cards, as well as the possible involvement of personnel stationed at government health facilities. A senior department official revealed that a nursing officer and a female health worker in Bharatpur are currently under investigation in connection with these irregularities. "At least six nursing staff and female health workers are currently under the scanner for misusing RGHS. Investigations are also underway in other districts to identify doctors and health officials involved in violations," the official emphasized.
According to the department, the alleged modus operandi involves employees using RGHS beneficiary cards for personal gain. This includes availing medical services or raising claims that are not intended for them. The suspected misuse was uncovered during the verification of scheme-related transactions, prompting the initiation of district-level audits and an expansion of monitoring efforts.
Stringent Actions and Recoveries
The health department has already taken strict measures against hospitals, pharmacies, and beneficiaries found guilty of irregularities. To date, the following actions have been implemented:
- 19 FIRs have been registered against hospitals and pharmacies.
- 64 personnel, including seven doctors, have been suspended in connection with RGHS violations.
- Approximately 500 RGHS cards have been blocked.
- Nearly Rs 2 crore has been recovered from beneficiaries for card misuse.
Enforcement actions have also been extended to empanelled hospitals. The department has:
- Blocked the Transaction Management System (TMS) of 33 hospitals.
- Stopped payments to 39 hospitals.
- De-empanelled eight hospitals.
- Recovered more than Rs 32 crore from hospitals over irregular claims and other violations.
Additionally, the TMS of 212 pharmacies has been blocked, and over Rs 5 crore has been recovered from them.
Ongoing Efforts and Future Implications
Officials have clarified that the ongoing audit in Bharatpur is part of a broader initiative to establish accountability and prevent further misuse of the RGHS. This drive underscores the government's commitment to ensuring the integrity of public health schemes and safeguarding resources intended for genuine beneficiaries. The expanded monitoring and rigorous investigations signal a proactive approach to addressing systemic issues within the healthcare framework.
