In a recent incident shared by journalist Kunal Kashyap on X (Twitter), Max Hospital Patparganj in Delhi faced severe criticism for unprofessional conduct during an outpatient department (OPD) appointment.
According to the shared post, the patient alleged that despite paying a consultation fee of Rs. 1500 and being given an appointment at 2:30, the doctor failed to show up at the Outpatient Department (OPD) until 3:30.
When the patient requested to cancel the appointment due to the delay, the doctor insisted that only she could cancel it. Moreover, the patient was informed that if the appointment was canceled, the refund would be credited to their account within seven days.
Reacting to the incident, Dr. Munish Kumar Raizada, a practicing doctor with 21 years of experience in the USA and President of LokSena Hind political party for Delhi, condemned the hospital's conduct. He characterized it as unprofessional and called for immediate reimbursement of the fee along with a sincere apology for the inconvenience caused. Dr. Raizada further suggested that the hospital should offer to see the patient at a reduced fee as compensation, possibly at a 50% discount.
In response to this incident, Anil Puri expressed his concern over the lack of government action against hospitals and educational institutions. He suggested that such entities, due to their significant revenue generation and influential connections, often escape scrutiny.
Vivek Arya offered practical advice to fellow patients, advising them to consider alternative options such as government hospitals or seeking appointments directly with doctors in private clinics to avoid similar experiences in the future.
Echoing the sentiment of frustration, another X (Twitter) user criticized hospitals like Max Patparganj, comparing them to hotels where people are exploited for profit without consequence.
This incident has raised questions about the accountability of private hospitals and the quality of healthcare services provided. Patients are increasingly demanding transparency, accountability, and improved service standards from healthcare providers.
As discontent grows on social media, the spotlight is on authorities to address the grievances of patients and ensure that such incidents are properly investigated and remedied to uphold the trust and integrity of the healthcare system.
(By Susmita Bhandary)