Hyderabad: Allegations of a TIMS equipment scam have surfaced after claims that substandard medical equipment was procured for Telangana Institute of Medical Sciences (TIMS), Sanathnagar, instead of the approved brands specified in tender documents, leading to an alleged financial loss running into crores of rupees.
According to the allegations, the construction company entrusted with procuring medical equipment purchased lower-cost alternatives in violation of tender conditions. The procurement reportedly covered mortuary coolers, steam steriliser units, plasma sterilisers, washer disinfectors, rotary heat sealers, ultrasonic cleaners, spray guns, manual tray washers, inspection lamps, tape dispensers, and Central Sterile Supply Department (CSSD) furniture.
The tender documents allegedly specified approved brands and fixed prices for the equipment. However, it has been alleged that cheaper products were supplied instead of the approved brands. While the procurement was estimated at around ₹12 crore, allegations claim that equipment worth only about ₹4 crore was purchased, with the remaining amount allegedly siphoned off.
The report also alleged that similar procurement arrangements were planned for TIMS hospitals at Alwal and LB Nagar, although no official confirmation has been issued.
TIMS equipment scam raises concerns over patient care
The alleged procurement irregularities have raised concerns about the quality of medical services at the hospital. Reports claimed that shortages of critical equipment, including surgical sterilisation units and mortuary coolers, could affect patient care and hospital operations.
The allegations further claimed that the equipment was procured without approval from the Directorate of Medical Education (DME). It was also alleged that differences between the brands approved in the tender and those supplied were not disclosed to the DME. According to the report, one supplier allegedly worked with the procurement team to supply the equipment without prior approval, and the DME later declined permission after finding the equipment to be of poor quality.
No official statement has been issued by the Directorate of Medical Education regarding the allegations. The claims remain unverified, and there has been no formal response from the construction company or other authorities named in the report.