A recent incident involving alleged medical misconduct at a private hospital in Bengaluru has sparked public concern. A young woman, 24-year-old Sneha Bhat, reported an unsettling experience on November 3, 2024, after visiting the hospital near Vasanthapura Main Road in Konanakunte, seeking treatment for a high fever and insomnia. Bhat's visit soon turned distressing when Dr. Pradeep, alongside ward boy Mahendra, reportedly failed multiple attempts to insert a cannula—a small tube for intravenous access—into her hand. According to the patient, both individuals seemed intoxicated, leading to a troubling experience marked by physical discomfort and alleged inappropriate behavior.

In her complaint filed with the Kumaraswamy Layout police, Bhat stated that she suffered significant pain as Dr. Pradeep and Mahendra repeatedly attempted to locate a vein to administer the IV drip. Despite four unsuccessful insertion attempts, the medical staff continued, exacerbating her discomfort. According to Bhat, their erratic and unsteady actions caused her to question their sobriety. She alleged that both the doctor and ward boy appeared visibly impaired, which contributed to their inability to provide proper medical care.

The situation reportedly escalated as the staff continued to behave inappropriately, which added to Bhat's distress. Eventually, she decided to formally report the experience, noting that she felt her health and safety had been compromised. Upon receiving her complaint, the local police registered a Non-Cognizable Report (NCR) on the matter, signifying that the case did not initially fall under the category of criminal offenses, as it involved complex medical issues. However, the NCR recognized that the incident might entail professional misconduct and medical negligence, particularly given the allegations of intoxication and unprofessional behavior in a healthcare setting.

Following standard procedure for such cases, police authorities indicated that the report had been referred to the Karnataka Medical Board. "Since the issue involves potential negligence and misconduct in a medical setting, the medical board will handle it," explained the police. The transfer acknowledges that the board is better equipped to assess the alleged medical lapses and ethical violations, given its jurisdiction and understanding of healthcare standards. The board will evaluate the professional conduct of Dr. Pradeep and the ward boy to determine if they violated any medical protocols or ethical guidelines. Possible outcomes may include an internal investigation, corrective measures, or disciplinary action based on the board’s findings.

This incident underscores growing concerns about patient safety and healthcare quality, particularly in cases where the professionalism of medical staff comes into question. Bhat’s complaint serves as a reminder of the responsibility medical professionals have toward patient well-being and trust. The police reiterated that the Karnataka Medical Board would assess the case’s details and handle any further inquiries into the misconduct allegations. Dr. Pradeep had initially recommended intravenous treatment to address Bhat’s condition. However, Mahendra’s apparent struggle to locate a vein and the resulting discomfort only worsened her experience at the facility.

The authorities emphasized that Bhat’s concerns over the medical staff’s competency and sobriety had been noted.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Yash Kamble/MSM)