In an exclusive interview with MedBound Times, Kunal Kashyap, a Delhi based journalist by profession and the son of a patient, has come forward with a distressing account of the alleged gross misconduct and negligence at Max Hospital, Patparganj. The incident, which unfolded in February 2024, sheds light on a series of disturbing events, from delayed test results to an appalling lack of hygiene and inadequate staffing.
Kunal's father developed a fever on the afternoon of February 18, 2024. DOLO 650 (Paracetamol) was initially provided under the assumption that the patient had a common fever. However, as the fever persisted, followed by shortness of breath in the evening, Kunal got concerned, considering his father's previous stent placement in November 2023. Lacking confidence in Max Healthcare due to a challenging experience during the previous stent surgery, Kunal sought advice from a doctor who worked at Deepak Kailash Hospital.
Aware of Kunal's reservations, the doctor suggested that if the stent surgery was performed at Max Hospital, it would be wise to consult the same doctors who conducted the procedure. Acknowledging the doctor's advice, Kunal decided to overcome his apprehensions and opted to visit Max Hospital for his father's health concerns.
Upon arriving at Max Hospital, Patparganj, they proceeded to the emergency department and admitted Kunal's father. Dr. Minakshi Jain conducted preliminary check-ups and ruled out any heart issues, suggesting symptoms resembling H1N1. Samples were taken for testing. It was suggested to Kunal to admit the patient as he has a high fever, upon which Kunal agreed to the admission and completed all the related formalities. They took the patient into the room at 11 a.m. and 12 a.m. and shifted him into the room.
During his father's 7-day stay at Max Hospital Patparganj, Kunal encountered a series of concerning events.
On the second day, he inquired about the H1N1 test results, only to be informed by the doctor that it would take 2-3 days.
As three days passed with ongoing treatments, Kunal, on the fourth day, once again inquired about the H1N1 test results. To his dismay, the attending doctor discovered that the hospital had not sent the samples for testing.
Realizing the lapse, the hospital took fresh samples on the morning of the fifth day. Although the results were available by the evening, the hospital withheld this information until the next day. During the patient's discharge, it was revealed that the H1N1 test came as positive, uncovering a troubling lack of communication and transparency in the hospital's handling of crucial medical information.
When the doctor returned to the OPD after her round checkup, she discovered a commotion among waiting patients. They expressed frustration and outrage, emphasizing that they had paid for their visits and expected timely and efficient service.
As the frustration among waiting patients reached its peak, Kunal's attempts to secure a refund for the unattended appointment faced additional hurdles. Upon approaching the hospital's reception for reimbursement, he encountered a new policy dictating a 7-day waiting period for refunds.
Expressing his discontent, Kunal questioned the logic behind the delay, emphasizing that payment processing happened instantly. Despite his arguments, the staff adhered to the policy, leading to further dissatisfaction.
Even after engaging with the Medical Superintendent, Dr. Nidhi, there seemed to be no immediate resolution to Kunal's concerns. Dr. Nidhi pledged to investigate the matter, but the hospital's rigid policy persisted, promising a refund within 7 days.
During the conversation, Kunal raised the issue of the hospital's prior negligence in not sending samples for testing promptly. Dr. Nidhi admitted fault, promising corrective measures. However, Kunal, disheartened by the entire experience, declined any further meetings with her, opting to handle the matter independently.
In a continued conversation, Kunal reveals that a significant number of individuals, evident from the hospital's social media comment section, have voiced similar grievances regarding misconduct by various branches of Max Hospital.
Furthermore, Kunal shares insights from discussions with others who attribute the decline in Max Healthcare's reputation to its new management, now allegedly under the control of business interests. According to these accounts, the hospital's once-renowned image has diminished under the influence of profit-driven decision-making.
Kunal takes his concerns to Twitter, posting a video exposing the deplorable state of hygiene at the hospital. In the footage, dialysis bags are visibly strewn across the floor. His tweet reads, "It seems that the super specialty of Max Healthcare is only in name. Patparganj branch itself is running ill due to a shortage of staff. One nurse took nine patients; even after taking blood samples, they did not send them for testing; cleanliness was zero. Just looting from people in the name of good facilities."
Kunal highlighted severe staffing issues at Max Hospital, Patparganj, revealing that one nurse is assigned to every nine beds around the clock. During his father's admission, Kunal observed a lack of assistance, noting that the nurse rarely turned off the IV drip after completion, forcing him to handle it himself.
He mentioned that daily inspections were conducted by staff nurses, questioning him about potential issues. Kunal praised the dedication of the existing staff but emphasized the need for additional personnel. In a confrontation with an inspection staff member, he questioned the hospital's failure to increase staffing despite evident challenges. This interaction led to a sense of discomfort among the staff, highlighting the ongoing struggle within the hospital to address fundamental staffing issues.
In the wake of alleged gross misconduct and negligence by Max Hospital Patparganj, Kunal is contemplating legal action. He has already consulted with an advocate who is currently out of Delhi.
Kunal is considering filing a consumer court case to address the issues surrounding his father's treatment.
The move highlights the severity of the grievances and the journalist's determination to seek justice through legal channels.
Kunal Kashyap's alarming experience at Max Hospital, Patparganj, reveals a concerning lack of patient welfare and professionalism. Allegations of gross misconduct and negligence demand urgent attention from the healthcare institution. As the public awaits a response, it underscores the critical need for accountability, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to patient well-being.
Note: MBT Desk attempted to reach out to Max Patparganj for clarification and was directed to a representative, but no response has been received.
(By Susmita Bhandary)
