Initial probe has established money transactions
Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, Oct 31: The Health and Medical Education (H&ME) Department has appointed an inquiry officer today to investigate a case involving the violation of professional ethics by a doctor posted at the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Magam.
The case primarily revolves around an alleged nexus between doctors and private diagnostic laboratories, violating the set norms and regulations.
According to details available with the Excelsior, the case came to light last year when it was reported that there existed an alleged nexus between the doctors at SDH Magam and certain diagnostic laboratories operating outside the hospital. Under this arrangement, medical tests were sent to selected labs.
It was also alleged that this nexus resulted in financial benefits for the doctors, who were reportedly engaged in these malpractices despite the hospital having the necessary facilities. Earlier, there were also reports of a similar understanding with regard to medicines.
In response to these allegations, and after the preliminary inquiry, the H&ME Department today issued an order appointing Dr. Shafqat Khan, Additional Mission Director of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, J&K, as the Inquiry Officer to conduct an in-depth probe into the matter.
Dr. Khan, as per the order, is tasked with conducting an in-depth inquiry into the allegations leveled against Dr. Imran Masood, who is stationed at SDH Magam and is accused of violating professional ethics.
The order issued by the H&ME Department has instructed the Inquiry Officer to submit a detailed inquiry report within 15 days, along with concrete recommendations.
It also requires the provision of cogent grounds, if any, to substantiate the prima facie case for “further investigation by the Anti-Corruption Bureau, as advised by the General Administration Department.”
Additional details of the case indicate that during the preliminary investigation carried out last year, it was established that some financial transactions had taken place between the laboratory owners and the doctors under scrutiny. However, no further action was taken due to the limited scope of the inquiry then.
Following this preliminary inquiry, the report was submitted to the Government. Subsequently, the General Administration Department (GAD) has now advised a thorough investigation by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).
However, before proceeding with the ACB’s involvement, the H&ME Department has decided to conduct a full-fledged inquiry into the matter to establish the links and determine whether there was indeed a nexus between the doctors and the labs.
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