A medical officer at Kottarakkara Taluk Hospital in Kerala’s Kollam district has been sent on compulsory leave following allegations of rude and inappropriate behaviour towards a patient and his attendants in the casualty department. The action followed the circulation of a video of the incident on social media and subsequent public criticism.
A medical officer at Kottarakkara Taluk Hospital in Kollam district, Kerala, has been sent on compulsory leave following allegations of misbehaviour with a patient and his attendants in the hospital’s casualty department.
The action was taken after a video purportedly showing the incident circulated widely on social media, triggering public criticism and prompting the hospital administration and district health authorities to initiate an inquiry.
Doctor Allegedly Questions Patient’s Visit To Emergency Department
The incident reportedly occurred after a patient arrived at the casualty department with fever and severe body pain.
According to reports, the doctor allegedly questioned why the patient had come to the emergency department after midnight and stated that fever and body pain did not constitute an emergency.
In the video circulated on social media, the doctor is allegedly heard telling the patient and bystanders that the emergency department was not meant for people to “rush into” and questioning their decision to seek treatment after midnight.
Patient’s Wife Allegedly Cites Heart History
According to reports, the patient’s wife informed the doctor that her husband had a history of heart problems and was experiencing significant pain.
Despite the information provided by the patient’s wife, the doctor allegedly refused to examine him.
The reported interaction subsequently became the subject of public criticism after the video of the episode gained traction on social media.
Hospital Issues Show-Cause Notice
Following the circulation of the video, the hospital administration initiated action against the medical officer.
The hospital superintendent reportedly issued a show-cause notice to the doctor, seeking an explanation regarding her conduct. The superintendent subsequently recommended departmental action.
The district health authorities also ordered an inquiry into the incident. The Health Department’s vigilance wing visited the hospital to examine the circumstances surrounding the episode and collect relevant information.
District Medical Officer Orders Compulsory Leave
According to reports, the District Medical Officer directed the doctor to proceed on compulsory leave after the video triggered widespread public outrage.
The vigilance team also visited the hospital as part of the investigation, while the hospital superintendent’s recommendation for departmental action is being considered by the authorities.
The allegations against the doctor remain subject to the outcome of the official inquiry.
Focus On Patient Communication In Emergency Departments
The incident has renewed attention on the manner in which patients and their attendants are treated at government hospital emergency departments.
Emergency departments routinely receive patients with varying levels of illness and urgency. Appropriate clinical assessment, communication with patients and attendants, and professional conduct remain important aspects of patient care in such settings.