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Medical Negligence: NRDC Slaps Kolkata Hospital with 60l Compensation

Public Health & Prevention, Public Health

The National Consumer Dismissal Redressal Commission (NCDRC) has fined Woodlands Hospital, Kolkata, and the concerned oncologist and anesthetist with 60 L compensation for a medical negligence case that occurred in 2008. The incidence caused the death of a patient diagnosed with stage IIB non-Hodkin’s diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (NHL-DLBCL). 

The directive stated, “The entire amount shall be paid within six weeks from today, failing which, the concerned liable parties shall be liable to pay 8% p.a. interest till its realization.” The hospital has also incurred an additional 2L fine toward litigation charges.  

The oncologist had allegedly failed to follow the chemotherapy advice from the Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, and remained absent during the infusion. The anesthetist erred in dispensing Vincristine – a chemotherapeutic drug, which was faultily administered intrathecally instead of intravenously.

The Commission said that since the doctor and the anesthetist were attached to the hospital as advertised through their brochures and website, the latter is also liable for the deficiency, failure of duty of care, and unfair trade practices.