A private hospital in Cuddalore has been directed by the Cuddalore District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (DCDRC) to pay a substantial compensation of Rs. 5 lakh for their deficiency in providing adequate medical service. The commission’s decision comes after a consumer complaint was filed by D. Ganesh, a resident of Cuddalore, who suffered complications during his treatment at the hospital.
D. Ganesh, aged 27, sought medical assistance at Kannan Hospital in Cuddalore due to complications in his left ear. Upon examination by an ENT specialist, Ganesh was diagnosed with Cholesteatoma, a condition that required surgical intervention. Subsequently, a surgery was performed on September 6, 2020, to address the issue.
Following the surgery, Ganesh experienced prolonged pain, hearing loss, and difficulty closing his eyes and mouth. Concerned about these complications, Ganesh sought a review at the Madras ENT Research Foundation. The review revealed that he had developed Grade IV facial palsy, a neurological disorder. As a result, Ganesh had to undergo another surgery in Chennai on November 18, 2020, to address the newly discovered condition.
Unsatisfied with the outcome and the subsequent complications, Ganesh decided to file a complaint with the Cuddalore District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (DCDRC). The commission, headed by President and Judge D. Gopinath, thoroughly examined the case to determine the extent of the hospital’s responsibility in the matter.
While the commission acknowledged that there was no conclusive evidence to prove negligence during the surgery performed at Kannan Hospital, it identified significant shortcomings in the overall provision of medical services. In particular, the commission highlighted serious lapses in informed consent procedures, lack of transparency in billings, and a general lack of proper duty of care on the part of the hospital.
Based on the findings and considering the seriousness of the deficiencies in service, the DCDRC ruled that the private hospital must pay a compensation amount of ₹5 lakh to Ganesh. Additionally, the commission awarded ₹10,000 to the complainant to cover legal expenses incurred during the proceedings.
In conclusion, the Cuddalore District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has taken a decisive stance against the private hospital in question, holding them accountable for their deficiency in providing proper medical service. The ruling serves as a reminder to healthcare institutions about the importance of adhering to informed consent procedures, ensuring transparency in billings, and upholding a high standard of duty of care towards patients.
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