A departmental investigation by the Jammu and Kashmir Health and Medical Education (HME) Department has found alleged irregularities in cardiac procedures conducted at Government Medical College (GMC), Anantnag.
Cardiologist Dr. Syed Maqbool has been suspended by the J&K government and also served a notice following an inquiry into 103 cardiac procedure cases registered under the PMJAY-SEHAT scheme.
The probe found discrepancies between claims uploaded on the Transaction Management System (TMS) and entries in the Cath Lab Procedure Register. Investigators alleged that while funds were claimed for dual-chamber pacemaker implantation, the procedures actually performed were left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP).
The State Health Agency (SHA) flagged an unusual rise in LBBAP-related claims and referred the matter to the Head of Cardiology at SKIMS, Soura, for expert review.
A clinical audit of 55 cases found that 27 patients—nearly 49 percent—had normal left ventricular function and wide QRS morphology, with experts concluding that there was no medical indication for LBBAP in these cases. The SHA subsequently rejected the related claims.
The inquiry also alleged that the doctor bypassed approved procurement channels, sourced medical devices directly from private vendors and charged beneficiaries who were entitled to cashless treatment under PMJAY-SEHAT.
The inquiry stated that technical experts at SKIMS confirmed “flagrant procedural misrepresentation” and accused the doctor of logging false descriptions in the TMS system, abusing his official position and committing serious medical malpractice.
Dr Maqbool has been directed to submit a written explanation within a week, failing which disciplinary proceedings under the J&K Civil Services (CCA) Rules, 1956, may be initiated, including possible termination from service.
J&K Health Minister Sakina Itoo said the cardiologist has been suspended.
“There were some complaints and after that we ordered a probe. Something came forward during the initial probe and the doctor has been suspended,” Itoo said.
Meanwhile, PDP leader Iltija Mufti said healthcare scam took place at GMC Anantnag, where cardiologists allegedly performed advanced heart procedures on patients who did not actually need them. She alleged the purpose was to fraudulently claim money from the PM-JAY scheme.
