Lokayukta flags patient exploitation by private ambulance operators at Victoria Hospital, orders probe

The Karnataka Lokayukta has taken serious note of the alleged exploitation of patients by private ambulance operators and middlemen on the premises of Victoria Hospital following a suo motu probe.

According to a press release, the Lokayukta initiated proceedings based on complaints that patients were being lured to private hospitals under the pretext of a lack of facilities at the government hospital. Private ambulance drivers and intermediaries were allegedly roaming inside the hospital campus, pressuring doctors to refer patients and even influencing attenders to opt for private ambulance services.

During the hearing, officials, including representatives from Bengaluru Medical College & Research Institute and associated hospitals such as Vanivilas Hospital and the Regional Institute of Ophthalmology (Minto Hospital), were directed to respond to the allegations and address administrative lapses.

The Special Officer of the Trauma and Emergency Care Centre, Asima Banu, informed the authority that the situation had become “uncontrollable” due to middlemen and private ambulance operators exploiting patients, particularly amid a shortage of beds. Dr. Banu also flagged instances of threats and assaults on doctors and hospital staff.

Taking cognisance of the situation, the Lokayukta directed the Bengaluru City Police to step in. The Deputy Commissioner of Police, Bengaluru South, was instructed to ensure strict action against miscreants and to maintain order within the hospital premises.

In a significant move, a special committee headed by a sitting district judge and senior Lokayukta police officials conducted surprise inspections to probe maladministration and dereliction of duty. The committee highlighted lapses, including allegations of expired drugs being used in the ICU.

The Lokayukta has also asked the State government to consider regulating private ambulance services through a prepaid system to curb exploitation. Senior officials from the Medical Education Department have been directed to appear before the authority and submit an action-taken report.

A detailed compliance report has been sought from all concerned departments by April 23. The matter will be heard next on April 27.