A doctor posted at the Jalaun Community Healthcare Center (CHC) in Uttar Pradesh was suspended on Sunday for allegedly working in a drunken state and referring patients to private pathology labs.
The incident came to light after the death of a 26-year-old patient, Shrilal, who was admitted to the CHC. Shrilal arrived with deteriorating health, but Dr. Kumar advised him to get a blood test done at a private pathology lab instead of the hospital lab. On the third day, he died on his way to the private lab to give a sample. This death prompted an investigation, leading the state government to take action and suspend Dr. Kumar, who was posted at Jalaun CHC.
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak ordered an investigation, during which attendants complained that Dr. Uday Kumar was not only referring patients to private labs but was also performing his duties under the influence of alcohol. Following the investigation, the Health Department suspended him and attached him to the Additional Director's office in Jhansi.
The deputy chief minister also ordered disciplinary action against another doctor, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Ghazipur, Sujit Kumar Mishra, for violating the instructions of higher officials and engaging in private practice while remaining absent from their government duties without notice.
This is not the first time such incidents have occurred. A similar incident also occurred in April 2023, leading to the dismissal and suspension of two doctors by the Uttar Pradesh government following accusations of black marketing and unethical activities. Dr. Anil Kumar Sharma, posted as Chief Medical Superintendent in Jaunpur, and Dr. Ramsharan, posted at Chitrakoot's Primary Health Center Kho, were the two doctors against whom action was taken.
Serious complaints, such as discourteous behavior toward female workers, were also received. The committee's investigation found these allegations to be correct. Consequently, Dr. Anil Kumar Sharma was dismissed with immediate effect, while the other accused, Ramsharan, was held responsible for involvement in unethical activities. Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak has firmly stated that no doctor-employee working against the rules will be spared.
The second incident occurred on April 14, when, on the instructions of Brajesh Pathak, two hospitals in Amroha were sealed due to allegations of negligence.
Additionally, Dr. Abhishek Biswas, who was posted on emergency duty at Bikapur CHC, has been transferred because he prescribed medicines from outside to a patient. This marked the third incident of negligence and violation of medical instructions.
Given the frequency of such incidents, questions arise regarding the appropriate actions to be taken against these individuals.
(Input from various media sources)
(Rehash/Komal Bhoi)