Undetected Genetic Disorders: Doctors Under Scrutiny
Incident Overview
In Alappuzha, Kerala, four doctors, including two from a government hospital and two from private diagnostic centers, have been charged for allegedly failing to identify genetic disorders in a newborn during prenatal scans. The case was initiated after a complaint from the baby’s parents, Anish and Surumi, alleging negligence in disclosing abnormalities during the pregnancy.
Legal Action and Charges
The Alappuzha South Police registered an FIR against the doctors under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) related to endangering life or personal safety. The complaint accuses the doctors of providing misleading assurances about the fetus’s health, leading to the unexpected birth of a child with severe genetic deformities.
Details of the Case
Surumi, a 35-year-old mother undergoing her third pregnancy, was under treatment at the Kadappuram Government Women and Child Hospital. She underwent prenatal scans on July 11, September 28, October 22, and November 1. The couple claims that these reports failed to reveal any signs of genetic abnormalities.
On October 30, Surumi was admitted due to concerns over the absence of fetal movement and heartbeat. She was referred to the Government Medical College Hospital (MCH) in Vandanam for further care. On November 8, she delivered the baby however, unfortunately, the newborn was found to have severe internal and external deformities, which were reportedly not flagged in earlier examinations.
Parents' Allegations
The couple alleged that the doctors consistently reassured them about the normal pregnancy. They expressed concern about seeing their baby for the first time only four days after delivery, which heightened their suspicion of medical negligence.
Doctors' Responses
One of the accused doctors, who treated Surumi during the initial months, defended herself, stating that she provided care for three months and had raised concerns about the fetus’s growth based on available reports.
Meanwhile, the doctors from the diagnostic centers denied any errors in the prenatal scan results, asserting that their procedures adhered to standard protocols.
Implications and Next Steps
The case raises serious questions about prenatal care and diagnostic accountability. As the investigation progresses, authorities aim to determine whether there was medical negligence or a failure in communication between healthcare providers and the parents.
Conclusion
This incident underscores the importance of thorough prenatal screenings and transparent communication in ensuring the safety of both mother and child. It also highlights the need for strict adherence to medical guidelines and the ethical responsibilities of healthcare professionals.
Source: Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
