China's health authorities are investigating a case in which an organization is accused of selling awards to hospitals.

Authorities promised to punish those involved in the illegal activity, Beijing Times reported on Monday.

Titles and awards issued by the Chinese Hospital Management Association - which claimed to be under the supervision of the National Health and Family Planning Commission - were sold at varying prices, according to media reports.

The China Central Television news programs Network News Broadcast and Focus Talk brought the story to light on Feb 15, saying that the CHMA has been holding two academic meetings a year for more than four years to sell prizes to hospitals.

The awards include "The National Top 10 People-Trusted Hospitals", priced at 28,000 yuan ($4,600); and "The Top 10 People-Trusted Medical Companies".

Awards could be used for boosting the hospital's reputation, one of the participant hospital representatives said in January.

The National Health and Family Planning Commission announced on Feb 16 that the CHMA awards are invalid, declaring that the government agency has no connection with CHMA and will further investigate the matter.