Jammu: The Legal Metrology Department (LMD) has taken action against the Punjab-based Jammu private hospital chain based in Jammu at Greater Kailash. The hospital has been fined for using non-standard units of measurement in its transactions, which violates legal regulations.
Through this significant step, LMD aims to protect consumers from fraudulent practices and ensure fair treatment in the healthcare sector.
The case came to light following a special inspection by the Legal Metrology Department Jammu District, directed by the Controller of LMD, Anuradha Gupta. The inspection aimed to regulate commercial transactions in the healthcare sector and enforce compliance with the Legal Metrology Act and its rules. It is made to protect consumers from fleeing the hospitals and to ensure fair trade practices in the medical industry.
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During the investigation, the LMD officials discovered the truth about the hospital's unethical practices.
The hospital, which specializes in orthopaedic surgeries and bone-related treatments, was found guilty of using nonstandard units of measurement in its billing system, which violates the law. The hospital was found guilty of violating provisions of the Legal Metrology Act by LMD. The act mandates accurate information and the use of standard units of measurement in all commercial transactions, including medical devices.
The investigation revealed significant discrepancies in the hospital's billing practices, particularly concerning the quantity of surgical materials and dressing supplies used during procedures, measured in terms of weight, measure, or number.
As per the media report by Daily Excelsior, upon registration of the case for breach of relevant provisions of the Legal Metrology Act, the hospital management pleaded guilty to the violation and opted for departmental compounding of the case by paying a fine of Rs. 20,000.
The Legal Metrology Department J&K, in a recent handout, has highlighted the provisions of the Legal Metrology Act. It emphasizes that medical services, including transactions related to medical devices, now fall under the purview of the Legal Metrology Act. According to the standing norms, pre-packaged commodities must not be sold at prices exceeding their maximum retail price (MRP). The clarification aims to enhance consumer protection in the medical industry.
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Consumers are advised to scrutinize their hospital bills for any discrepancies, especially regarding overcharging. In case someone encounters overcharging, aggrieved consumers can report to the Legal Metrology Department for timely resolution.
The Controller of Legal Metrology, Anuradha Gupta, has called upon the traders and service providers, including hospitals, and appealed to adhere voluntarily to Legal Metrology standards during the consumer’s transactions to ensure that patients receive fair and transparent billing services.