In a landmark decision, the District Consumers Disputes Redressal Forum ordered Singla Hospital in Model Town and its managing director, Dr. Hari Krishan Singla, to compensate Rs 3 lakh for medical malpractice committed during the treatment of four-year-old Mandeep Kaur. The complaint, Rajinder Singh, the father of Mandeep Kaur, is relieved by the commission’s judgment, which was made public. The panel is led by President Sanjeev Batra and Member Monika Bhagat.
The youngster in this case first presented with head ache on May 8, 2017, which prompted Dr. Amit Chakraborty to treat her at the Hans Maternity Home in Jagraon. Without providing a clear reason, Mandeep was sent to Singla Hospital following three days of therapy. She had surgery at Singla Hospital without having any previous scans. The surgery came with a ₹60,000 price tag for the family. Regrettably, rather than getting better, Mandeep’s health worsened, which forced the family to go to Deep Hospital in Ludhiana for more care, costing them Rs 57,311.
Rajinder Singh and his daughter claimed that medical malpractice and an incorrect diagnosis tainted the care they received at Singla Hospital. They maintained that the carelessness resulted in severe emotional suffering in addition to a large financial cost. The forum found in favor of the complainants after taking into account the arguments and supporting documentation.
The commission’s ruling stipulated that Rs 1 lakh of the Rs 3 lakh compensation be given to Rajinder Singh, the father, and Rs 2 lakh be deposited into a designated account under Mandeep Kaur’s name. This decision demonstrates the forum’s acknowledgement of the psychological and financial costs the family suffered as a result of the alleged medical malpractice.
Medical malpractice is a severe problem, especially when it affects patients who are weaker, such small children. The Mandeep Kaur case brings to light a number of important facets of patient care and medical practice. First off, there are concerns regarding the transparency and communication between healthcare practitioners in light of the Hans Maternity Home’s referral to Singla Hospital without a reason. To guarantee that patients receive appropriate and ongoing care, clear communication and appropriate documentation are crucial.
Second, a clear case of medical malpractice occurred when Mandeep’s surgery was performed without first obtaining scan results. When determining a patient’s health and the best course of treatment, diagnostic scans are essential. A departure from accepted medical practice is indicated by the absence of certain diagnostic procedures prior to surgery, which could put the patient’s health at risk.
The family’s agony was made worse by the financial strain of having to pay over ₹1 lakh for treatment at both Singla Hospital and Deep Hospital. The psychological anguish of witnessing their child’s suffering, in addition to the financial hardship, highlights the significant effects of medical malpractice on patients and their families.
The commission’s decision also acts as a reminder to medical professionals of the value of following standard operating procedures and upholding patient care standards. The accused’s attorney contended that Mandeep Kaur had been treated in accordance with established protocol. But the commission’s ruling implies that these protocols were either inadequate or improperly implemented, which had a negative effect on the patient.
This case also emphasizes how consumer protection forums can help resolve complaints about medical malpractice. Patients and their families can use these forums as a venue to demand answers from healthcare professionals and hold them responsible for care failures. While it cannot make up for the pain Mandeep and her family endured, the money granted in this case provides some amount of financial relief and justice.
Furthermore, the commission showed consideration in its choice to set aside a portion of the compensation in a fixed deposit for Mandeep’s future. By recognizing the long-term effects of the medical malpractice on the minor’s life, this guarantees that the compensation will benefit her in the long run.
A major advancement in the field of medical negligence litigation is the District Consumers Disputes Redressal Forum’s decision against Singla Hospital and Dr. Hari Krishan Singla. It emphasizes how crucial it is to provide patients with care that is transparent, accurately diagnosed, and follows medical procedures. The Mandeep Kaur case highlights the severe financial and emotional effects that medical negligence can have on patients and their families. The forum’s ruling upholds some justice and highlights the necessity of accountability in the healthcare industry. To avoid such events and develop patient trust, healthcare personnel must emphasize patient safety, make sure that appropriate communication is maintained, and follow established medical guidelines.
SOURCE:
HINDUSTAN TIMES
