CardiologyProbe – Jammu and Kashmir Orders Action in Pacemaker Procedure Case
CardiologyProbe – A senior cardiologist serving at a government medical institution in Jammu and Kashmir is facing departmental proceedings after an official investigation reportedly uncovered serious concerns related to cardiac treatment practices and the use of public healthcare resources.
The Health and Medical Education Department has initiated major disciplinary action against Dr. Syed Maqbool, who is posted at Government Medical College, Anantnag. The move comes after an inquiry examined a series of cardiac procedures and raised questions about whether certain medical interventions were carried out without sufficient clinical justification.
Investigation Highlights Concerns Over Cardiac Procedures
According to findings cited in the inquiry, a large number of patients underwent pacemaker-related procedures under circumstances that are now being reviewed by medical authorities. The case is linked to an alleged irregularity involving 103 cardiac patients who received treatment at the institution.
Experts involved in the review reportedly assessed several cases connected to a specialized pacing procedure known as Left Bundle Branch Area Pacing (LBBAP). Their analysis found that a significant number of patients who underwent the intervention showed normal heart function, raising concerns about the necessity of those procedures.
Audit Triggered by Unusual Claim Patterns
The issue first came under scrutiny after officials monitoring the Ayushman Bharat PMJAY-SEHAT health insurance programme noticed an unexpected rise in claims associated with LBBAP procedures at the medical college during December 2025.
The unusual trend prompted a detailed audit by independent experts. During the examination, 55 cases were identified for closer review. Of these, 27 patients were reportedly found to have normal left ventricular function despite having undergone the procedure.
Medical reviewers concluded that several interventions may not have been supported by clear clinical indications, prompting further investigation into treatment protocols followed at the hospital.
Allegations Include Record Manipulation and Misuse of Funds
The charges outlined against the cardiologist extend beyond questions surrounding medical necessity. Authorities have reportedly accused the doctor of maintaining inaccurate records, engaging in fraudulent practices within the healthcare system, and facilitating unauthorized medical interventions.
The inquiry also points to alleged collaboration with private suppliers and vendors. Investigators are examining whether these relationships influenced decisions related to patient treatment and medical device implantation.
In addition, officials are looking into claims that beneficiaries of the PMJAY-SEHAT scheme may have been subjected to financial exploitation through procedures that are now under review.
Department Seeks Formal Response
As part of the disciplinary process, the Health and Medical Education Department has directed the doctor to submit a written explanation addressing the allegations. A response has reportedly been sought within seven days.
Officials have also indicated that if no reply is received within the stipulated period, the proceedings may continue without the participation of the accused doctor. The outcome of the investigation could have wider implications for oversight mechanisms governing public healthcare institutions and government-funded treatment programmes in the region.
The case remains under departmental examination, and authorities are expected to determine further action after reviewing all evidence and the doctor’s response.