Early Times Report
Jammu, Jan 16: The American Oncology Institute, operating within a private hospital in Jammu, has come under severe criticism for allegedly exploiting underprivileged patients. Promises of free treatment under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat scheme have reportedly turned into a nightmare for many.
According to allegations, the Institute initially lures poor patients by assuring them that all treatment expenses will be covered under the Ayushman Card, a government initiative aimed at providing free healthcare to economically weaker sections. However, within three to four days of admission, patients are allegedly informed that their cases do not qualify for the scheme. They are then forced to bear the cost of treatment themselves.
In cases where patients or their families are unable to afford the expenses and wish to discontinue treatment, the Institute reportedly demands exorbitant fees for the few days they were admitted. The charges for three to Promises of free treatment under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat scheme have proven to be a hoax.
The Institute initially lures poor patients by assuring them that all treatment expenses will be covered under the Ayushman Card.
However, within three to four days of admission, patients are allegedly informed that their cases do not qualify for the scheme. They are then forced to pay for the treatment.
The alleged malpractice has raised serious concerns about the accountability of private healthcare providers.
The Early Times was approached by the family of one such patient, who narrated their ordeal of being misled and burdened with hefty medical bills. They accused the Institute of unethical practices and urged authorities to take immediate action to prevent further exploitation of vulnerable patients.
The alleged malpractice has sparked outrage among the affected families and raised serious concerns about the accountability of private healthcare providers. Calls for strict government intervention and a thorough investigation into the Institute’s practices have grown louder.
The Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat scheme was introduced to make healthcare accessible and affordable for underprivileged citizens. However, incidents like these highlight the need for robust monitoring mechanisms to ensure that the scheme is not misused by private institutions. | 