Health Minister Says Disciplinary Action Taken After Inquiry Found Lapses in Patient Care
A senior resident doctor at the Government Medical College Hospital (MCH) in Thiruvananthapuram has been suspended following an inquiry into a shocking incident involving maggot infestation in the surgical wound of a patient after surgery.
Responding to criticism from the opposition regarding recent allegations of medical negligence in government hospitals, Kerala Health Minister K. Muraleedharan informed the State Assembly that a panel of senior doctors investigated the matter and found lapses on the part of the treating doctor. Based on the findings, the doctor has been suspended pending a disciplinary inquiry.
The minister clarified that the action was initiated despite the absence of a formal complaint from the patient’s family. “Action was taken based on news reports of the incident,” he said.
Probe Continues Into Patient Death at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College
Muraleedharan also addressed another controversial case involving the death of a man who allegedly fell from a hospital bed at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College. He stated that the postmortem report, received on Wednesday night, confirmed a head injury. Further action will be taken based on the findings of the report.
Minister Clarifies Snake Bite Incident at Thrissur Medical College
Referring to reports of a postgraduate medical student being bitten by a snake at Thrissur Medical College, the minister rejected claims that the incident occurred inside the operation theatre.
According to Muraleedharan, the snake bite happened outside the hospital building. He explained that undergrowth around the campus had recently been cleared as part of a cleanliness initiative, causing a snake to take shelter under a nearby vehicle. The student was bitten when she accidentally stepped on the snake while entering the car.
“So, it did not happen inside the operation theatre as suggested by the opposition,” the minister said.
Pharmacist Suspended for Dispensing Wrong Eye Medication to Child
The Health Minister further revealed that a pharmacist at a government hospital had been suspended for allegedly providing incorrect eye medication to a child. The child reportedly experienced a burning sensation after using the medicine and later sought treatment at a private hospital for relief.
Government Committed to Action Against Medical Negligence
Muraleedharan emphasized that while instances of medical negligence can occur, every complaint or report must be thoroughly investigated and appropriate action taken against those responsible.
He criticized attempts to blame systemic failures without accountability, stating that ensuring proper functioning of the healthcare system is the responsibility of both officials and the government.
The minister’s remarks were also seen as an indirect criticism of former Health Minister Veena George, who had previously highlighted systemic challenges within the state’s healthcare sector.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to patient safety and accountability, Muraleedharan said all complaints related to medical negligence would be examined carefully, and strict action would be taken wherever lapses are established.
