Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Maharaja Yeshwantrao Hospital administration’s tall claims that they would remove private ambulance operators from its campus have fallen flat, as these operators continue to exploit poor and vulnerable patients. Despite previous directives banning private ambulances from hospital premises, they can again be spotted on the campus.
These private ambulance operators lure the patients by telling them that they would ensure free and better treatment at private hospitals under Ayushman Bharat, and lured by the promises, the patients leave the MY Hospital, often against medical advice (LAMA).
According to hospital staff, the private ambulances remain parked all over the campus, including near the police post, casualty area, post-mortem room, and the roads connecting the associated hospital.
“Various complaints from patients and protests against this malpractice have been frequent, but no effective action has been taken by the administration and police to curb the menace. These operators charge exorbitant fees from needy patients, taking undue advantage of their distress,” the hospital staff said adding the Junior Doctors’ Association had also complained about them.
Agents luring Ayushman cardholders
A senior professor, on the condition of anonymity, said, “Many agents targeting Ayushman card holders have been spotted within the hospital premises. These agents reportedly lure patients to private hospitals, promising better treatment under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
They primarily focus on patients requiring surgeries, especially orthopaedic procedures, often conducting preliminary tests like X-rays before transferring them.” He also alleged that some doctors are complicit in these activities, receiving commissions for diverting patients to private facilities.
“One of the assistant professors in orthopaedic department runs a private hospital as well. He is also involved in transferring the patients,” the doctor said.
Create nuisance on the campus
In a recent incident, an ambulance gang led by Deepak Verma gathered a crowd within the hospital campus to show dominance. Such activities violate hospital regulations, yet no action was taken, raising questions about the administration’s ability to maintain control.
Quote
Will take action “Private ambulances are not allowed to be parked in the premises. If they are, I will get it checked.” Dr Ashok Yadav, Superintendent of MY Hospital
