The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to the Delhi Government, Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), and a private hospital following a plea filed by a minor who is in a vegetative stage. The plea seeks cancellation of the hospital’s license over non-compliance with Nursing Home Rules related to the appointment of a specialist in ICU (Intensive Care Unit) in the hospital.
The petitioner alleged medical negligence on the part of two doctors and also stated non-compliance of Delhi Nursing Home Rules by the said private hospital. The Nursing Home Rules provided that only an MD/MS could be appointed as an ICU specialist in a hospital or nursing home. The petitioner, 5-year-old Devarsh, sought direction to stop these doctors from handling the neonatal ICU.
A vacation bench of Justice Jasmeet issued notice on the petition and listed the matter for hearing on July 5. The counsel argued that the petitioner is a victim of medical negligence caused by two doctors handling the neonatal ICU in the hospital despite not having the prescribed postgraduate qualification.
The counsel also submitted that the incidents of the petitioner are from 2017, and these two doctors are still handling the department as specialists, although they do not possess the required postgraduate qualification prescribed by the Delhi Nursing Home Rules. They are endangering the lives of many children who need specialized care by a specialist.
The court’s decision comes as a response to the petitioner’s claims that doctors were violating Nursing Home Rules, causing medical negligence. The plea seeks justice for the victim and other children who might face similar issues. The case brings the focus back on the importance of following the rules and regulations enumerated by the government for ensuring the safety of patients in hospitals and nursing homes across the country.
