West Bengal Health Minister alleges fraud in Swasthya Sathi scheme
Health Minister Sharadwat Mukherjee has prepared a report on suspected financial irregularities in the state's health insurance programme.
Health Minister Sharadwat Mukherjee has prepared a report regarding suspected financial irregularities in West Bengal’s Swasthya Sathi health insurance scheme over the last 10 years, according to Urban Acres. Mukherjee said he intends to present the findings to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and request an inquiry by an independent agency.
The minister alleged that fraudulent bills were raised using the names of beneficiaries who had already died. He cited an instance where a patient died during treatment, but bills were reportedly submitted again in that person's name two or three years later. Mukherjee stated that insurance companies cleared these claims despite the recorded deaths.
The allegations suggest possible involvement from various parties, including doctors, hospital authorities, officials within the health department, third-party insurance companies, and beneficiaries. Mukherjee noted that family members of beneficiaries might also have played a role in some cases.
The minister also addressed complaints against Health Secretary Narayan Swaroop Nigam, stating he lacks the authority to take action against the bureaucrat as the secretary reports to the chief secretary. Mukherjee suggested such complaints should be directed to the chief minister or chief secretary.
Earlier, sources in the state Health Department reportedly indicated that approximately 30 lakh Swasthya Sathi cards were suspected to be fake and that financial irregularities could exceed Rs 30,000 crore. The minister noted an outside agency would be necessary to establish the extent of the malpractice, particularly as health department officials could be involved.