AAP had started Mohalla Clinics in order to provide Delhi citizens with a near the home cure for simple aliments. On paper it was a good scheme as people were supposed to get healthcare at affordable prices.
Currently there are a about 110 mohalla clinics operational, a far cry from a 1000 that were supposed to be built by 2016. There are a total 106 doctors manning these clinics that operate from 9 AM to 1 PM.
Now these clinics have come under the Vigilance Department’s scanner after they received complaints that the Mohalla Clinics’ doctors were seeing a very high number of patients during their stipulated clinic hours, which was practically not possible.
It is reported that if one goes by records, the doctors were treating as many as 533 patients in 4 hours, which turns out to be about 27 seconds per patient. Rightfully questions would be raised over the quality of the treatment provided if each patient lasts just 27 seconds in front of a doctor.
There are allegations that the doctors were making up false patients as their earning depends on the number of patients they treat. They reportedly earn about Rs 30 per patient. Its also alleged that the doctors are deliberately giving useless medicines that might ensure repeat visits from the patient, thus further pushing up their earnings.
The Vigilance Department has started the probe and sent letters to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and the Chief Medical District Officer (CDMO) seeking replies. These letters reportedly contain the word ‘scam’ while referring to the clinics.
This isn’t the first time these Mohalla Clinics are in the news for the wrong reasons. In July of last year it was reported to Delhi Health Minister Satyendra Jain’s daughter was the one heading these clinics, sparking allegations of nepotism. She was forced to step down after the outrage. Just last month these clinics were again under scanner for employing unqualified staff for treating patients and dispensing medicines.
