Medical negligence

Transparency, accountability and continuous improvement pivotal to healthcare sector development

In a shocking incident at a private hospital in Faisalabad, patients received incorrect operations due to extreme negligence by a doctor. A woman who arrived for a leg operation ended up undergoing a gallstone operation, while another woman seeking gallstone removal underwent an unintended leg operation. The mix-up occurred due to similar names of both patients. The gravity of the situation was further amplified by the mysterious disappearance of the patient’s address from her records, causing additional confusion and distress. The victims and their families, understandably distressed, have appealed to the Punjab Health Minister for intervention and justice.

Instances of medical negligence highlight the need for strict adherence to professional standards, protocols and guidelines. Healthcare professionals must prioritise patient safety and well-being above all else. When negligence occurs, it is crucial for healthcare institutions and regulatory bodies to conduct thorough investigations, hold accountable those responsible, and implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The public must be reassured, and faith must be restored in the healthcare system. Victims of medical negligence often endure physical, emotional and financial hardships. Their trust in the healthcare system may be shattered, and they may face long-lasting consequences that affect their quality of life. Their families also have to bear the brunt of such mishaps. It is essential for the legal system to provide avenues for victims to seek justice and compensation for their losses.

Efforts should focus on promoting a culture of transparency, accountability and continuous improvement in healthcare. This can be achieved through robust training programmes, regular performance evaluations, effective reporting systems, and open communication between healthcare providers and patients. Additionally, implementing stronger oversight and regulation can help identify and address potential areas of concern, while reducing the changes of medical negligence.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 11^th, 2023.

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