Broker racket exposed in Malda Govt Hospitals; Patients charged for unnecessary tests and medicines

A broker racket has come to light in government hospitals in Malda, with patients being charged for unnecessary tests and medicines. The incidents have been reported at Bulbulchandi Rural Hospital in Habibpur and Malda Medical College Hospital. The district administration and health department have initiated investigations into these allegations of malpractice.

At Bulbulchandi Rural Hospital, a written complaint has been filed by the family of Damayanti Mondal, who brought her husband to the hospital for treatment due to high fever. The complaint alleges that as soon as the family arrived, brokers surrounded them and advised immediate hospitalization, claiming the patient’s condition was critical. The brokers then recommended several tests, including a blood test, which the family later found were unnecessary. A total of 670 rupees was charged for these tests. The family raised concerns that such actions exploit vulnerable patients and their families.

Similarly, Malda Medical College Hospital has faced allegations of brokers selling medicines illegally. A man was seen selling medicines outside the emergency department. Security staff attempted to apprehend the individual, but he managed to flee, leaving behind the illegally sold medicines. The district health department has confirmed that the incident is under investigation, and the hospital authorities are working closely with local police to identify the individual involved and prevent such activities in the future.

In response to the allegations, Sudipta Bhaduri, the Chief District Health Officer, stated that the issue at Bulbulchandi Rural Hospital is being investigated by the Block Health Officer. He noted that the hospital lacks a boundary wall, which allows outsiders to easily access the premises. The authorities are reviewing measures to restrict entry to the hospital and prevent brokers from exploiting patients. Regarding the Malda Medical College Hospital, Bhaduri confirmed that discussions had been held with the district police to address the illegal sale of medicines and other related activities.

The investigations into both incidents are ongoing, and the district health department has assured that appropriate actions will be taken based on the findings. Hospital authorities have been instructed to implement stricter surveillance and prevent the involvement of middlemen in medical procedures. The local police are also involved in the ongoing efforts to crack down on the illegal activities at both hospitals.