When is it a case of negligence?
If no inquiry or experts are required, then it is a clear case of negligence. In such cases, medical negligence is established based on the doctrine of res ipsa loquitur (the thing speaks for itself).
- If there is any evidence of prima facie case, never events or mens rea (criminal intent).
- If there is violation of any of the following SCI recommendations (Martin F. D’Souza vs Mohd. Ishfaq, 3541 of 2002, dated 17.02.2009)
- Current practices, infrastructure, paramedical and other staff, hygiene and sterility
- No prescription should ordinarily be given without actual examination
- The tendency to give prescription over the telephone, except in an acute emergency, should be avoided
- A doctor should not merely go by the version of the patient regarding his symptoms, but should also make his own analysis including tests and investigations where necessary
- A doctor should not experiment unless necessary and even then he should ordinarily get a written consent from the patient
- An expert should be consulted in case of any doubt; Full record of the diagnosis, treatment, etc. should be maintained.
- Not maintaining complete records of diagnosis, treatment etc.
3. If there is any violation of established treatment guidelines with no consent.
4. If informed consent was not taken
5. If a copy of medical records were not given in time despite request by the patient or authorized person
6. If the act in question is a willful act
7. If the patient was neglected at any time or not attended to in an emergency
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Who is responsible to maintain records , the hospital where the surgery was done or the surgeon ? Please clear this ambiguity.