Highlights from FEHMICON and MLAGCON 2024
Justice Madhavi Devi Stresses documentation at the FEHMICON and MLAGCON medical conference in Hyderabad, Justice Madhavi Devi of the Telangana High Court emphasized the critical role of meticulous documentation by doctors, particularly in emergency medical cases. She urged healthcare professionals to leverage digital technology for accurate record-keeping while maintaining patient privacy to avoid future legal issues.
Judiciary Guidelines and Medical Practitioner Responsibility
Justice Madhavi Devi noted that the judiciary has established sufficient guidelines to protect doctors. She highlighted that it is now the responsibility of medical practitioners to take necessary precautions to prevent litigation. She referenced the Supreme Court’s judgment in Parmanand Katara vs. Union of India as an example.
Addressing Misunderstandings and Restoring Reputation
The conference, which attracted over 350 delegates from across India, aimed to clear misunderstandings between patients and doctors and restore the medical profession’s reputation. Neeraj Nagpal, convenor and managing trustee of the Medico Legal Action Group (MLAG), reported a significant increase in medical negligence cases, with numbers rising from 113 cases in 1995 to 57,000 cases by 2023, excluding those in the Supreme Court and high courts.
V.C. Sajjanar, Managing Director of the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation, suggested that Dr. Nagpal include retired police officers in the MLAG to facilitate smoother police liaison in medico-legal cases.
Dr. Fehmida Banu, consultant obstetrician and gynecologist at FehmiCare Hospital, expressed her gratitude to all participants and speakers. She highlighted the conference’s role in strengthening the bond among healthcare professionals and addressing medico-legal challenges. Dr. Banu remarked that this year’s focus on medico-legal issues was particularly relevant given the complexities and challenges healthcare professionals face today.
Source : The Hindu