An inquiry into alleged financial and administrative irregularities at Khyber Teaching Hospital has identified a major gap in laboratory records and invoices. The report found a difference of more than 135,000 tests, raising concerns about billing practices and financial oversight.
According to the inquiry findings, the hospital conducted around 930,000 laboratory tests. However, invoices were available for only approximately 794,000 tests.
The report estimated that the discrepancy may have caused a monthly financial loss of Rs7 million. However, investigators did not consider the difference conclusive proof of financial embezzlement.
They recommended a detailed audit to establish the reasons behind the missing records. The review would examine test results, invoices, patient categories, and financial receipts.
Inquiry Identifies Laboratory Record Discrepancies
The issue emerged during a review of laboratory records following complaints about declining revenue. Investigators examined software reportedly used at Khyber Teaching Hospital to manage laboratory data.
The software was linked to Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital. Sources said records for around 135,000 tests were unavailable when investigators requested data from the institution.
The inquiry also raised concerns about the management and accessibility of patient records. Investigators highlighted weaknesses in monitoring systems and the absence of a barcode system.
These gaps made it necessary to examine how laboratory tests were recorded and billed. The inquiry called for stronger monitoring and a detailed comparison of records.
Patient Categories and Billing Practices Under Review
The investigation also identified an alleged practice involving changes to patient categories. Sources claimed that approximately 100 patients were reclassified each day.
According to the allegations, patient information was transferred to the morning outpatient department (OPD). This reportedly allowed laboratory tests to be billed at lower rates.
The inquiry recommended examining morning OPD records in addition to evening OPD data. The investigating officer considered the inquiry incomplete without this further review.
The findings highlighted the need to establish whether patient categories were changed appropriately. Investigators also need to determine how such changes affected billing and hospital revenue.
Laboratory Revenue Increases After Inquiry
Laboratory revenue at Khyber Teaching Hospital reportedly increased by more than 130% after the inquiry. The rise prompted further questions about earlier billing practices and monitoring arrangements.
However, the increase alone does not establish the cause of the previous revenue differences. Investigators recommended examining individual transactions and corresponding records before assigning responsibility.
The report also raised concerns about restricted access to software data. It referred to allegations that entries could be altered or deleted.
According to sources, the inquiry committee recommended further action. However, the hospital director later issued a letter restricting the relevant information technology section from providing records.
This development raised concerns about access to evidence needed to complete the investigation. The inquiry officer stressed that investigators required relevant records to verify the findings.
Hospital Administration Responds to Software Concerns
The Khyber Teaching Hospital administration maintained that the software had been provided free of charge. It also stated that no payment had been made to Shaukat Khanum Hospital for its use.
The software was reportedly installed at several hospitals operating under the Medical Teaching Institutions Act 2015. These included Lady Reading Hospital, Khyber Teaching Hospital, and Hayatabad Medical Complex in Peshawar.
The inquiry officer also warned against sharing patient information with unauthorised individuals. Such disclosure could violate medical ethics and raise concerns about patient confidentiality.
Comprehensive Audit Recommended
The inquiry has called for a detailed examination of laboratory tests, invoices, patient classifications, and financial records. Investigators must establish whether the discrepancies resulted from administrative weaknesses or other irregularities.
Further investigation is also needed to determine whether any financial misconduct occurred. The findings do not yet establish individual responsibility or prove embezzlement.
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A comprehensive audit could help clarify the missing records and identify weaknesses in hospital procedures. It may also help authorities determine what corrective measures are necessary.
