‘Patient poaching’ in hosp takes violent turn as rival groups open fire

Bhopal: A violent clash linked to alleged patient poaching by private hospital agents broke out outside Morena district hospital, with two rival groups opening fire while trying to take a pregnant woman to their respective facilities.The incident took place around 2.17 am on March 15 outside the new maternity ward of the hospital. The woman had arrived from Kailaras in a private ambulance for delivery.Speaking to local media, a senior doctor at the hospital voiced concerns over the growing syndicate menace at the hospital. "Agents of private hospitals stand outside with ambulances and try to divert patients. At night, many patients are not even allowed to enter the hospital," the doctor told reporters.As the ambulance reached the gate, agents of two private hospitals —converged on the vehicle. Both sides attempted to take the patient away, leading to a heated argument that escalated into gunfire within the hospital premises.Those involved fled immediately after the firing. The entire sequence was captured on CCTV cameras installed at the hospital.Following the incident, the pregnant woman did not receive treatment at the district hospital and was reportedly taken elsewhere. Her condition remained unclear till the time of filing this report. Hospital authorities said such incidents are becoming frequent due to aggressive patient poaching by private hospitals. Referring to the March 15 incident, the doctor added, "The same thing happened that night. We still don't know where that woman went for treatment."Hospital officials said written complaints have been lodged earlier as well, warning that if the situation is allowed to persist, a serious incident involving patients or staff could take place.