Medinipur: In the wake of a tragic incident involving the death of a woman and the critical condition of four others due to expired saline at Midnapore Medical College and Hospital, junior doctors have raised concerns through an open letter addressed to the Medical Superintendent cum Vice Principal (MSVP). The letter, written by the Resident Doctors’ Association, highlights growing dissatisfaction over the handling of the case.
Allegations and Calls for Fair Investigation
The letter expresses frustration with the situation, calling it an “unforgivable death” and condemning what they perceive as the practice of scapegoating. The junior doctors demand a “free and fair investigation” to uncover the truth behind the incident, emphasizing that the issue goes beyond individual mistakes and points to systemic failures. The letter reads, “We just want a free and fair investigation to unearth the hidden truth.”
Concerns Over Hospital Management and Oversight
The junior doctors also criticized the broader issues affecting the hospital’s functioning, such as the shortage of senior doctors, inadequate medical supplies, and questionable practices in the health department. They expressed disappointment over the lack of accountability for the hospital’s oversight, stating that they are not concerned with administrative issues like appointments and transfers. The letter called for clarity on the hospital’s operation, especially regarding supervision and the responsibilities of senior staff members.
Crisis Over Medical Oversight
The letter also questions the dramatic change in the patients’ conditions, referring to a “total cell count change to 56,000” as a case of shock, highlighting a lack of medical clarity and proper care. The doctors, who claim to be working under difficult conditions, argue that they are often treated as “emotional” and “soft targets,” blamed for issues beyond their control.
Investigation and Tensions Rise
The incident has attracted significant attention, with CID sleuths interrogating the MSVP multiple times in the past week. The tension within the hospital has escalated, with reports of a verbal altercation between the junior doctors and security staff over a mobile phone charging issue, though no further details have been provided.
The letter by the junior doctors reflects a deepening crisis at the hospital, with many questioning the integrity of medical oversight and the hospital’s ability to address key issues of safety and care. It underscores the emotional toll on healthcare professionals who are navigating a charged environment while striving for accountability.