Doctor charges ₹2,500 for a test amid accusations of malpractice at AIIMS

In Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Dr Samendra Kumar, a doctor working in the administration section of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), has been reported for unethical practices regarding the Fundus Fluorescein Angiography (FFA) test. This incident dates back to 2021 when it was discovered that he was charging patients Rs 2,500 for the FFA test in his private clinic, despite the fact that AIIMS had no facility for this test at that time. Furthermore, allegations surfaced about Dr Kumar's private practice, Prime Health Care, where he was reported to have sold contact lenses that were subsequently implanted in patients during cataract surgeries at AIIMS. Despite a formal complaint lodged with senior officials at AIIMS, no significant action has been taken against him. Dr Kumar continues to operate within the hospital's administration, a situation that raises serious questions about the accountability and ethics of healthcare professionals in the area. When confronted, Dr Kumar claimed that the complaint was not made by any patients, resulting in a lack of seriousness from AIIMS regarding the allegations. AIIMS director, Dr Ajai Singh, acknowledged the 2021 incident and noted that Dr Kumar had apologized for his alleged unethical practices. However, the case has left many wondering about the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms in place to safeguard patient welfare in healthcare institutions.