The Cooperative Academy of Professional Education (CAPE), the regulatory body of Cochin Medical College, has asked the Medical Director to conduct a detailed enquiry into allegations of irregularities in the medical college pharmacy.
This was based on a preliminary report submitted by a committee appointed by Medical Director Raju Antony.
Three suspended
Based on CAPE orders, three persons in the pharmacy department have been suspended pending enquiry.
Dr. Antony told The Hindu that he had ordered an initial enquiry based on the allegation of a relative of a patient who found that the billing at the pharmacy showed incorrect statement regarding reimbursement.
A three-member committee in the college had sent a report to CAPE on the basis of which a financial officer also held a probe.
Dr. Antony said action will be taken only after a detailed enquiry is held.
Scuffle at hospital
Following the suspension of three pharmacists on Wednesday, other pharmacists at the hospital went on strike, leading to altercation between the pharmacists and the relatives of patients.
It was alleged that all medicines for OP and IP departments were redirected to be bought from outside that led to the scuffle in which three hospital staff were hurt.
Meanwhile, at the College Council Meeting held on Thursday, it was decided that matters relating to the assault on the hospital staff would be pursued.
A complaint in this regard has been filed at the police station, said the Medical Director.
It was also decided that an application would be given to the District Collector to make the college representative a member of the District Development Committee.