Medical Negligence Allegation at Chikkamagaluru Government Hospital
Incident Overview
Chikkamagaluru has become the center of a medical negligence allegation against a doctor at the local government hospital. An attendant has claimed that his patient was neglected while experiencing severe breathing difficulties in the emergency ward. The attendant alleged that the doctor was preoccupied with a phone call during this critical time, which allegedly contributed to the patient’s death.
Viral Video and Public Response
The allegations gained traction after a video surfaced on social media. In the footage, a patient is seen on a stretcher while the doctor appears to be engaged in a phone conversation. The individual who recorded the video asserted that delays in treatment were a direct factor in the patient’s demise.
Hospital Administration’s Defense
In contrast to the allegations, the hospital administration has firmly rejected claims of negligence. They stated that the patient had succumbed to pneumonia and that the doctor had provided appropriate care, dismissing any accusations of neglect.
Patient Identification and Background
According to a report from Deccan Herald, the deceased individual has been identified as 60-year-old Manjunath, a resident of Lakshmipura village. Local sources indicated that he was experiencing severe breathing issues and was taken to the government hospital for urgent medical assistance.
Details of the Allegation
The attendant reported that Manjunath was gasping for air while lying on a stretcher in the emergency department. It was claimed that the doctor on duty was seated and talking on a mobile phone. Allegations further suggested that despite being at the hospital for an extensive period, the patient did not receive timely treatment and was transferred late to the intensive care unit, which led to his death.
Official Response from Medical Authorities
In light of these allegations, District Surgeon Dr. Chandrashekar asserted that no negligence occurred. He clarified that the doctor visible in the video had already assessed the patient and was using the mobile phone to review X-ray reports for another case at the time. Dr. Chandrashekar stated, “Some people recorded that moment and circulated the video. There was no negligence on the part of the doctors.” He also mentioned that he personally attended to the patient and facilitated his admission to the ICU, but unfortunately, Manjunath, who was suffering from pneumonia, still passed away.
Related Incidents
This incident is not isolated, as it follows another case where three doctors were booked for alleged medical negligence after a patient died at Karkala Hospital.