Minister admits illegalities in Goa's GMC hosp

Health Minister of Goa Vishwajeet Rane has admitted that there are numerous illegalities happening in Goa's premier health institute, Goa Medical College and Hospital.

In an internal note, while ordering inquiry in one such matter, Rane has written stinging remarks on the present functioning of the GMC and its dean Dr Pradeep Naik.

"During the tenure of the present dean, a lot of illegalities have taken place in Goa Medical College," the minister said.

The note further reveals how a racket is being operated from the GMC by conducting blood tests of patients from private labs and fleecing them when it the duty of the government institute to conduct these tests in the hospital free of charge.

"Blood tests going outside Goa Medical College for testing, people being exploited and now we have fake death certificates being issued," the note said.

The minister has ordered an inquiry into the functioning of a senior doctor who is accused of issuing dubious death certificates privately while serving as government doctor in the GMC. Private practice of such doctors is prohibited.

The note further reveals Health Secretary quoting acting dean of the GMC that prima facie the case looks genuine.

"The dean informed that prima facie the information given in the press appears to be correct," the secretary wrote.

The minister has passed further strictures on functioning of the dean stating that the dean never brought this matter to the notice of the government and that is serious.