Case of “broken machine still crushing stones after 2 years”: 2 doctors prosecuted and temporarily detained
On September 22, the Dak Lak Provincial Police Investigation Agency initiated criminal proceedings, prosecuted the accused, and temporarily detained Nguyen Ngoc Hoang (born in 1977, Head of the Department of Nephrology and Urology), and Bui Ngoc Duc (born in 1974, Head of the Department of Surgery and Anesthesia and Resuscitation, Central Highlands General Hospital) to investigate the crime of "Abusing position and power while performing official duties".
Initial investigation results determined that, from March 28, 2024 to May 15, 2024 and from May 28, 2024 to December 31, 2024, at the Central Highlands General Hospital, the Laser lithotripsy machine was broken and could not be used, but the defendants Hoang and Duc still performed endoscopic lithotripsy procedures contrary to the procedure, recording on 255 medical records that the techniques were performed using the Laser machine.
Of which, 235 cases covered by health insurance were paid by Dak Lak Provincial Social Insurance with the amount of more than 273 million VND, with patients paying more than 33 million VND. 20 cases not covered by insurance, with patients paying more than 25 million VND themselves. At the same time, the hospital paid for surgery and procedures for 255 cases with the amount of more than 60 million VND.
The investigation agency determined that the actions of the two defendants caused a loss of more than VND273 million to the health insurance fund, caused more than VND59 million in damage to patients' property, and seriously affected the reputation of the Central Highlands General Hospital, the rights and health of patients, and caused negative reactions in public opinion.
Currently, the Dak Lak Provincial Police Investigation Agency is continuing to expand the investigation, clarifying the behavior of related individuals to strictly handle them according to the law.