Looting at government hospitals, patients ignored

Reports of systemic mismanagement and financial irregularities have surfaced across numerous public hospitals in the country, raising concerns about the welfare of patients who rely on state-funded healthcare. According to multiple sources, essential items such as food, medicines, and medical supplies—earmarked for patients—are being consistently underprovided, and in some cases, entirely withheld. Despite the apparent awareness of these irregularities, the Ministry of Health has reportedly taken no substantive action.

Insiders claim that certain hospital administrators and civil surgeons are directly involved in the alleged embezzlement. Yet, instead of facing disciplinary measures, these officials reportedly enjoy implicit protection from senior figures within the Ministry, including the Additional Secretaries responsible for hospital oversight. Observers say this tacit shield has allowed corruption to become deeply institutionalised.

Official guidelines stipulate that patients should receive daily allocations of adequate, high-quality meals. In practice, however, these rations are frequently reduced, with low-quality food provided while surplus funds are allegedly misappropriated. Similarly, medicines and essential medical supplies, which are meant to be supplied free of charge, are often withheld, forcing patients to purchase them privately at their own expense.

Further irregularities are said to extend to almost all procurement activities within public hospitals. Inflated bills, substandard goods, and fictitious purchases are cited as common methods for diverting large sums of money. Revenues generated from hospital services are reportedly not fully remitted to the state treasury, contributing to a growing perception of institutionalised corruption.

Concerned citizens warn that public hospitals are often the last resort for the nation’s poorest and most vulnerable. If embezzlement continues unchecked and perpetrators remain shielded, it is not merely a matter of financial misconduct but a direct threat to public health.

Table: Alleged Irregularities in Public Hospitals

Public sentiment suggests that unless the Ministry takes decisive action to investigate and penalise wrongdoers, the trust in state healthcare will continue to erode, leaving vulnerable patients at risk of both financial exploitation and inadequate medical care.