The National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC), led by AVM J. Rajendra, clarified that not every death in a hospital is a result of medical negligence. The NCDRC emphasized that assumptions of inadequate medical care are not enough to prove negligence. Concrete evidence is required to establish that medical professionals failed in their duty of care.
This ruling came during a case review where the deceased's family accused the hospital of negligence. The commission stressed that while every death in a hospital is unfortunate, it does not necessarily mean there was a lapse in medical care.
The NCDRC highlighted the importance of evidence in such cases. It stated that to prove medical negligence, it must be shown that there was a breach of duty, that this breach directly caused harm, and that harm resulted in the patient's death. Without clear and convincing evidence, it is unfair to hold medical professionals accountable for outcomes that may be beyond their control.
This decision reinforces the need for a thorough investigation into medical negligence claims. It underscores that healthcare providers should not be presumed guilty without a careful examination of the facts. The NCDRC's stance aims to protect medical professionals from unwarranted accusations while ensuring that genuine cases of negligence are appropriately addressed.