Ghost Signatures on Pathology Reports
Maharashtra doctors’ body raises alarm
Mumbai: The Maharashtra Association of Practising Pathologists and Microbiologists (MAPPM) has raised concerns over the use of ‘ghost signatures’ on pathology reports. In a recent case, a pathologist who died on June 23, 2025, was still shown as signing laboratory reports until November 2025.
Multiple Reports Issued Posthumously
Signature misused after death
The deceased doctor’s signature appeared on four pathology reports issued by different laboratories. This suggests that laboratories were allegedly using the signature of a qualified medical professional even after his death.
Discovery by Insurance Company
Irregularities flagged
The matter came to light after an insurance company noticed inconsistencies in lab reports and alerted MAPPM. The association then examined the reports and confirmed four instances where the deceased doctor’s name was used after his death.
MAPPM Response
Authorities to be notified
Dr Sandeep Yadav, President of MAPPM, stated that the association will send a mail to the authorities. He added that information about these reports was received from insurance companies and concerned citizens.
Legal Guidelines on Lab Supervision
Pathologist presence mandatory
Dr Prasad Kulkarni, MAPPM executive member, said technicians cannot run labs or sign diagnostic reports independently. Only a qualified pathologist is legally allowed to supervise lab work and validate reports.
Misuse of Signatures
Name over actual supervision
Kulkarni explained that many laboratories only show the name of a registered pathologist to meet legal requirements. The pathologist may not be physically present or actively supervising the testing process, with emphasis given only to the signature.
Previous Incidents
Telangana pathologist controversy
Medical Dialogues reported multiple cases where a Telangana-registered pathologist signed reports for laboratories across Maharashtra without being registered with the Maharashtra Medical Council, which is mandatory to practice in the state.
Recent Case Highlights Issue
Signature continues after demise
In the latest incident, a pathologist who died on November 20, 2025, continued to have his signature appear on laboratory reports across six locations in Maharashtra. Reports were issued in his name even after his death, raising serious ethical and legal concerns.
