Health Department Finds 13 Violations in Seven Hospitals During IVF Centre Inspections
Following his directions, task force teams, constituted under GO 176, have intensified inspections of IVF centres across the state.
Hyderabad: Thirteen regulatory violations have been detected in seven hospitals during inspections of IVF centres across Telangana, with the health department issuing show-cause notices to their management. The inspections were part of a statewide investigation into alleged illegal oocyte (egg) collection from women.
Of the 44 assisted reproductive technology (ART) facilities identified in the state, health officials have completed inspections at 27 centres. Inspections at the remaining facilities are under way, Musharraf Ali Faruqui, commissioner of health and family welfare and mission director, national health mission, said in a statement.
Health and medical and family welfare minister Damodar Rajanarasimha has directed the department to conduct a comprehensive investigation into alleged illegal activities being carried out under the guise of oocyte collection and take stringent action against institutions and individuals found violating regulations.
Following his directions, task force teams, constituted under GO 176, have intensified inspections of IVF centres across the state.
Further action will be taken after examining records seized by the police and information obtained from the National ART and Surrogacy Registry. The investigation is also examining the women identified in connection with the case and the alleged roles of doctors, IVF centres and intermediaries.
As part of the probe, health officials visited the National ART and Surrogacy Registry in New Delhi on November 6 and sought details of cases reported by registered ART clinics and banks operating in Telangana.
The health department said oocyte collection must strictly comply with the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act and Rules. All ART clinics and ART banks operating in the state must obtain mandatory statutory registration and follow the prescribed regulations.
The department has advised women not to fall prey to misleading promises or financial inducements by intermediaries, which could expose them to unauthorised medical procedures.
Members of the public have been urged to report suspected illegal activities to the concerned district medical and health officer.