Ernakulam: In a landmark judgment aimed at protecting the right to life and ensuring universal access to emergency medical treatment, the Kerala High Court has issued a series of strict directives to hospitals across the state. The court ruled that no patient can be refused emergency care due to lack of money or absence of identity documents.
Emphasising that saving lives must be the top priority of every medical institution, the bench clarified that financial constraints or procedural formalities cannot override a patient’s fundamental right to emergency healthcare.
According to the court, all hospitals—public or private—carry a primary obligation to provide immediate medical attention to any individual arriving in a critical condition. Emergency departments must promptly examine patients, stabilise their condition, and if required, ensure safe transfer to a facility capable of providing specialised treatment, IANS reported.
Transparency in Treatment Costs Mandatory
In a significant move to improve accountability, the High Court directed all hospitals to clearly display their treatment charges in both Malayalam and English. These must be available:
- At the reception area
- On the hospital’s official website
The court stated that the cost format must be simple, clear, and easily understandable so that patients and their families can make informed decisions without confusion or fear of exploitation.
Duty of Care Begins the Moment a Patient Arrives
The bench highlighted that the responsibility to provide medical care starts the moment a patient reaches the hospital—not after administrative paperwork is completed. The ruling aims to address incidents where delays or denial of treatment have resulted in preventable tragedies.
The High Court reiterated that emergency medical care is an essential component of the fundamental right to life, and hospitals cannot function solely as commercial enterprises when human lives are at risk.
Rising Healthcare Costs Trigger Court Intervention
The directive comes amid increasing public concern over soaring healthcare expenses in Kerala, particularly in private hospitals that have faced criticism for alleged overcharging and lack of transparency.
