Odisha Takes Action Against Hospitals Under Ayushman Bharat Scheme
In a significant move to uphold the integrity of public healthcare, the Odisha government has de-rostered 10 private hospitals from the Ayushman Bharat-Gopabandhu Jana Arogya Yojana (ABPMJAY-GJAY). Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling made this announcement in the state assembly on Monday, citing alleged irregularities and violations of scheme norms.
Investigation and Suspensions
The government examined a total of 56 complaints related to misconduct by hospitals empanelled under the scheme. Following a formal review, show-cause notices were issued to the concerned facilities. As a result, 10 hospitals have been suspended, and one hospital in Ganjam district has been penalized for submitting duplicate claims.
"The government is closely monitoring hospitals and healthcare providers under the scheme to ensure beneficiaries receive the promised standard of high-quality, cashless treatment," Minister Mahaling emphasized.
Distribution of Suspended Hospitals
The 10 suspended hospitals are distributed across multiple districts in Odisha:
- Three hospitals in Cuttack district
- Two hospitals each in Ganjam and Khurda districts
- One hospital each in Kendrapada, Bhadrak, and Balangir districts
Action was taken based on various alleged violations, including:
- Breaches of scheme terms and guidelines
- Irregularities in operations
- Absence of proper clinical establishment registration
- Negligence in patient treatment, with one case linked to a woman's death
Penalty for Duplicate Claims
In a separate incident, a hospital in Ganjam district faced a show-cause notice for submitting duplicate claims under the ABPMJAY-GJAY scheme. The government has recovered a penalty of Rs 58,500 from this facility, underscoring its commitment to financial accountability.
Government's Stance on Compliance
Minister Mahaling clarified that action is being initiated based on complaints received against hospitals under the scheme. "Any hospital found violating norms after complaints are lodged will face show-cause proceedings and further action from the government," he stated, reinforcing a zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct.
About the Scheme
The Ayushman Bharat-Gopabandhu Jana Arogya Yojana aims to provide cashless healthcare benefits to eligible beneficiaries across Odisha. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance access to quality medical services for underserved populations, ensuring that healthcare delivery remains transparent and efficient.
This crackdown highlights the government's proactive measures to safeguard public funds and maintain trust in the healthcare system, setting a precedent for stricter enforcement of scheme guidelines in the future.
