The Supreme Court of India has recently ruled in favor of a doctor who was accused of medical negligence in a PTOSIS surgery case. The Court overturned the decision of the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) which had held the doctor liable for medical negligence.
The Bench consisting of Justice Pamidighantam Sri Narasimha and Justice Pankaj Mithal pronounced this judgment on October 25, 2024.
Facts of the Case
The patient, a minor, underwent surgery for congenital ptosis in 1996. The father alleged that the surgery was negligently performed, leading to further deterioration of the child’s eye condition. He sought compensation for medical expenses, emotional distress, and loss of potential earnings.
The doctor, a qualified ophthalmologist, defended the procedure, claiming it was performed with due care and that complications are a known risk of ptosis surgery. The doctor also noted that the patient sought further treatment from other medical facilities after the initial surgery.
Key Issues Considered
The Supreme Court emphasized that the mere deterioration of a patient’s condition after surgery does not automatically imply medical negligence.
The Court reiterated the “Bolam Test,” which states that a medical professional cannot be held liable for negligence if they acted in accordance with a practice accepted as proper by a responsible body of medical opinion.
The Court clarified that the burden of proof lies with the patient to establish negligence on the part of the doctor. In this case, the patient failed to provide sufficient evidence to substantiate the claim of negligence.
Implications of the Judgment
The decision also underscores the challenges faced by medical professionals in a litigious society. It emphasizes the need for robust legal protection for doctors who act in good faith and with reasonable care.
The judgment reinforces the principle that medical professionals should not be held liable for unforeseen complications or adverse outcomes that occur despite the exercise of reasonable care and skill.
