Erode, Tamil Nadu: A doctor at the Siruvalur Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Gobichettipalayam has come under fire after allegedly misdiagnosing a four-month pregnancy as abdominal bloating. The error, which was later corrected by a private hospital, has sparked serious allegations of medical negligence against the government-run facility.
Shocking Misdiagnosis
The 28-year-old woman had been undergoing regular antenatal check-ups at the Ayalur PHC, which operates under the jurisdiction of the Siruvalur Block PHC. As part of routine prenatal protocols, she was referred to the Siruvalur centre for further evaluation of her pregnancy.
During her recent visit to the centre, she was examined by a trainee doctor, who told her that she was not pregnant and dismissed her abdominal swelling as mere bloating.
Shocked and confused, the woman and her husband sought a second opinion at a private hospital in Gobichettipalayam, where an ultrasound scan confirmed that she was four months pregnant and the fetus was healthy and developing normally.
Allegations and Public Outrage
The couple has since filed a formal complaint, accusing the Siruvalur PHC of gross negligence and seeking action against the attending medical staff. They also claimed that repeated attempts to speak with the medical officer involved were unsuccessful, further fueling public outrage over the lack of accountability.
Health Department Responds
Speaking to The Hindu, Deputy Director of Health Services Dr. P. Aruna acknowledged the incident and stated that the doctor had attributed the misdiagnosis to “poor abdominal visibility” during the scan. She confirmed that an official inquiry has been launched to investigate the matter and determine appropriate action.
Background and Context
The incident has revived concerns over the quality of antenatal care in rural health centres and the supervision of trainee medical staff. The matter has drawn parallels to other high-profile cases of diagnostic negligence, including a recent ruling by the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in Faridkot, which ordered a scan centre to pay Rs 16.5 lakh in compensation for failing to detect a fetal deformity in multiple scans.
What Next?
As the inquiry proceeds, health activists and local residents are demanding greater oversight, improved training for junior doctors, and better diagnostic protocols at PHCs across the state.
The Health Department is expected to submit a report following the inquiry, and disciplinary action may be taken based on the findings.
