Article Today, Hyderabad:
A Hyderabad family has accused AIG Hospital of concealing the death of a liver transplant patient until the complete bill payment was made. The deceased, identified as Murali Dhar, 40, reportedly died during treatment, but hospital staff allegedly kept the information hidden to ensure the remaining amount was collected.
Rs. 85 lakh Paid Before Body Release
According to the family, Murali Dhar had undergone a liver transplant procedure that failed. Over a period of 45 days, the family claims to have paid Rs. 85 lakh to the hospital. They further alleged that even a few hours before he was declared dead, the hospital insisted on clearing a payment of Rs. 14 lakh. The family said the hospital handed over the body only after the entire amount was paid.
Family Alleges Medical Negligence
Relatives have also accused the hospital of medical negligence and manipulation of official records. They claimed that the hospital staff altered Murali Dhar’s age from 40 to 60 years in official documents. This change allegedly prevented the possibility of finding a suitable donor under the Jeevandan organ donation scheme. As a result, Murali Dhar’s wife volunteered to donate a portion of her liver. However, he died shortly after the surgery.
Alleged Malpractice in Transplant Process
The family stated that the discrepancies in patient records and the delay in declaring death indicate malpractice. They demanded an inquiry into whether the hospital violated Jeevandan guidelines. Medical experts have suggested that any falsification of records in transplant cases could amount to a serious ethical and legal breach.
Police and Health Officials Initiate Probe
Following protests by relatives and locals outside AIG Hospital, Rayadurgam police registered a complaint and initiated an investigation. Officials from the Health Department are expected to examine whether the hospital adhered to transplant protocols and billing regulations.
Demand for Government Action
Patient rights groups have called for strict action against hospitals found guilty of unethical practices. They said this case highlights the need for transparency in transplant procedures and billing systems in corporate healthcare institutions.
Ethical Accountability in Focus
The incident has renewed public concern over the commercialization of healthcare in the corporate sector. Health activists have urged the government to ensure that patient care is prioritized over profit motives, particularly in critical and life-saving treatments.
