The Dak Lak Department of Health discovered the discrepancy during a routine inspection of the Central Highlands General Hospital in July, according to Director Nay Phi La. The inspection revealed that the hospital's laser lithotripsy machine had been malfunctioning since 11/2023. During this period, 480 patients underwent stone removal surgery. Of these, 255 patients' health insurance records falsely indicated the use of laser lithotripsy, despite undergoing open surgery.

The Dak Lak Department of Health has referred the case to the police to investigate potential insurance fraud and whether hospital staff colluded with external parties to sell surgical guides.

The Central Highlands General Hospital stated it is establishing a team to conduct health check-ups for the 255 affected patients.

Four hospital staff members received warnings, and nearly 20 employees faced administrative penalties for failing to report the equipment malfunction promptly. The head of the department received a warning and a temporary suspension. The deputy head received a reprimand for potential mismanagement of the laser lithotripsy machine.

Tran Hoa