ACC conducts operation over 'overcharging for heart stents' at National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has conducted an enforcement drive today (20 September) at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) over allegations of charging patients more than the prescribed price for heart stents.

An ACC team led by Assistant Director Khorshed Alam conducted the operation and collected documents related to stent price lists, supply procedures and payments taken from patients, said ACC Assistant Director Md Tanzir Ahmed.

"Based on specific allegations, an ACC enforcement team conducted the drive at the hospital," he said. 

"Information was gathered regarding the prices of stents used for patients, supply procedures, money collection methods, and the roles of those involved," he added.

According to the complaint submitted to the ACC, patients and their relatives often have to make quick decisions when a stent is urgently needed.

Taking advantage of the situation, stents are allegedly being sold at prices higher than the prescribed rates.

The complaint further states that in many cases, patients' relatives are not provided adequate information about stent manufacturing companies, pricing, or alternative options and are instead directed to purchase stents from specific suppliers. 

It also alleges that stent prices are being inflated due to commission-based transactions between doctors and supplying firms.

The complaint filed with the anti-graft watchdog further claims that doctors receive substantial commissions for using specific stents. In some instances, a portion of these commissions allegedly goes to hospital authorities or other parties involved.

The ACC stated that next steps will be decided after reviewing the documents and information collected during the enforcement drive.