VB investigates knee replacement ‘scam’ at Ludhiana Civil Hospital

The Vigilance Bureau (VB) is probing alleged irregularities in knee replacement surgeries conducted under the Ayushman Bharat scheme at the Lord Mahavira Civil Hospital, officials in the know said.

The probe was initiated in response to a complaint that doctors were charging patients for a procedure done under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), they added. The complaint alleged that inflated bills for surgeries and medications were submitted to the government for reimbursement.

In a letter to the hospital’s senior medical officer (SMO), VB asked for records of all knee replacement surgeries performed under AB-PMJAY in the last two years. Although VB asked to submit the records by October 22, but the hospital asked for an extension.

SMO Dr Harpreet Singh confirmed that the hospital has sent documents to the agency regarding the details. At the same time, he noted that this issue is being investigated and he cannot comment on it.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP VB) Ravinderpal Singh confirmed that the investigation was conducted following a complaint. According to him, the hospital has assured them that it will provide the necessary details and data by the end of the month.

He emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and it is premature to draw any conclusions.

The letter has reportedly caused “unrest” among hospital staff and the SMO has asked the concerned staff to gather information immediately.

VB’s letter also asked for a copy of the Ayushman Bharat policy and its terms and conditions, asking it to clarify whether the treatment under the scheme is free or whether some services or medicines are subject to charges.

The bureau has asked for information on patients treated under the scheme, the amounts billed to the government and any fees charged to patients, if any.

The state government and private hospitals have been at loggerheads over the outstanding dues of patients treated under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. Private Hospitals and Nursing Homes Association (PHANA), Punjab, has protested against the time taken by the government to make payments under the insurance scheme.

According to the association, bills amounting to more than ₹600 crore is expected from the government.