At Ahmedabad’s Khyati Hospital in Gujarat, seventeen patients from Borisna village in Kadi, who visited for routine health check-ups, were reportedly subjected to angiographies and stent placements without consent. This alleged unauthorized medical procedure has resulted in two deaths, with five other patients currently in critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Allegations of Unauthorized Procedures and Deaths
According to reports, these patients, primarily from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, were taken to Khyati Hospital for check-ups. However, without prior disclosure or consent, hospital staff allegedly performed angiographies and placed stents. Following these unauthorized procedures, two patients tragically lost their lives, while five others are still under intensive medical care, raising serious concerns about medical ethics and patient rights.
Anger Erupts Among Families and Villagers
Upon learning of the incident, grief-stricken families and enraged villagers stormed the hospital, expressing their anger through vandalism. They allege that Khyati Hospital exploited the patients, potentially to claim benefits under government healthcare schemes, thereby prioritizing profit over patient welfare.
Swift Government Response and Suspension of Hospital Staff
The incident quickly attracted the attention of state health officials. Health Commissioner Rishikesh Patel announced the immediate suspension of the doctors involved in the case. The suspension will pave the way for a transparent investigation into the alleged malpractice. In addition, authorities have promised swift and stringent legal action against those found guilty of compromising patient safety.
“The incident is highly serious and sensitive,” stated Health Commissioner Rushikesh Patel. “The state Anti-Fraud Unit (SAFU), under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), has been instructed to conduct an immediate investigation.”
Criminal Charges and Legal Proceedings on the Horizon
The Commissioner clarified that if the SAFU investigation finds evidence of medical negligence or malpractice, a criminal case will be filed against Khyati Hospital and the medical professionals involved. This could lead to arrests and potential charges for severe breaches of medical conduct.
“Our administration stands committed to ensuring that justice is served. If negligence is proven, necessary police action will be taken, including arrests and further legal proceedings,” Health Commissioner Patel affirmed.
Broader Implications for Patient Safety and Healthcare Regulation
This incident has shed light on the need for stricter regulatory oversight and accountability in the healthcare sector, especially concerning the treatment of vulnerable rural patients. As the investigation unfolds, the state government’s response and any resulting reforms could signal a turning point for patient rights and ethical practices within hospitals in Gujarat.
The state’s Anti-Fraud Unit is expected to release its findings shortly, which could determine the course of action against Khyati Hospital and set a precedent for handling such cases in the future.
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