Incident at Sembanur PHC

Staff Accused of Celebrating During Duty

In Madurai, four doctors, a pharmacist, a nurse, and a hospital staff member are facing scrutiny after being accused of hosting a New Year party in the maternity ward of the Primary Health Centre (PHC) at Sembanur while on duty. This incident has raised serious concerns, especially after it was revealed that the doctors were absent when a critically injured accident victim arrived for treatment.

Patient’s Attendant Records Viral Video

The situation escalated when the attendant of the injured patient recorded a video, showcasing liquor bottles and food items strewn across the ward. This footage was uploaded to social media and rapidly gained traction, capturing the attention of the government.

Response from Health Authorities

In light of the incident, the District Health Officer (DHO) took immediate action, suspending the four doctors and the pharmacist. Additionally, show-cause notices were issued to the nurse and a hospital staff member, requesting an explanation for their behavior.

Details of the Incident

Emergency Patient’s Experience

According to a report by The Hindu, the incident transpired on the night of December 31, when a patient injured in an accident was brought to the PHC for emergency care. Upon arrival, the patient’s attendant found no medical personnel present at the reception and began searching for them in the emergency and maternity wards.

Shocking Discovery in the Maternity Ward

Upon entering the maternity ward, the attendant was reportedly taken aback to discover expensive imported liquor bottles, non-vegetarian food, and snacks scattered about, with no medical staff in sight. The attendant documented the scene using a mobile phone, and the video quickly went viral on social media platforms.

Inquiry and Consequences

Following the incident, DHO Meenakshi launched an inquiry and confirmed that a New Year’s Eve celebration involving alcohol had indeed occurred at the PHC. Based on the inquiry’s findings, the DHO ordered the suspension of five staff members, including the four doctors on night duty and the pharmacist who was allegedly involved in the festivities.