Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Apr 5: A release issued by Manipal University said that Dr D P Shenoy, former member of National Consumers Disputes Redressal Commission, spoke about important cases of medical negligence which came before the commission, and judgments delivered thereto. He was speaking at a lecture programme on ‘Medical Negligence and Patients’ Protection’ organized at the Interact Building in Manipal recently.

In his address, Dr Shenoy dealt with a number of cases in which medical negligence was proved, and several others, where the same could not be proved. He said that it is the duty of the hospitals to provide medical records to the concerned patients within 72 hours since he requests for the same.

Dr Shenoy asserted that a patient should be treated only after he gives his nod for the same after he is explained about the medical procedures. He said that every patient has the right to choose the doctor for his treatment, and also to seek second opinion.

He noted that the doctors need not be unduly bothered about unnecessary harassment by mischievous patients, as a medical practitioner cannot be sued without making out a prima facie case. Before accusing a doctor for any wrongdoings, it becomes necessary to get opinions from expert doctors that the medical practitioner concerned had committed medical negligence in the eyes of law, he explained.