Relatives ransack hospital after patient's death

 The death of a patient at a private hospital in Mahalakshmi Layout sparked off a flash protest  on Sunday night. 

The family members and relatives of the patient threw stones at and ransacked the hospital. The police had a tough time controlling the situation. Complaint and counter-complaints were lodged against the doctors and the patient’s family members following the incident.

Venkatesh, 53, a resident of Sunkadakatte and worker at a bar and restaurant on Sumanahalli Ring Road, had breathing problems. He was being treated at a private clinic near his house. The doctors advised his family members to shift him to ESIC Hospital in Rajajinagar. Venkatesh was taken to the ESIC Hospital at 9.45 am, said the police.

The doctors suggested his family members to shift him to Spine Care and Ortho Care Hospital in Mahalakshmi Layout which had required facilities and was covered under ESIC scheme. He was taken to the hospital at 2 pm.

Venkatesh was responding to the treatment and was fine till 8 pm. He suddenly developed complications and died within minutes. Venkatesh’s family members grew furious as doctors announced his death due to cardiac arrest. They were not ready to buy doctors’ theory and alleged medical negligence on their part. 

Soon, a large number of relatives gathered and threw stones at the hospital building.
 A few of them barged inside and ransacked the health facility. On getting information, the police rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control. Venkatesh’s wife Vedamma and son Harish told the police that Venkatesh died due to delay in treatment. They held Dr Vimala and others as responsible for the death in the complaint.

The police said the cause for the death would be ascertained after the post-mortem. Samples have been sent to Forensic Science Laboratory for tests.

Doctors at Spine Care and Ortho Care Hospital refuted the allegations and claimed that Venkatesh did not die due to medical negligence. 

“The patient had other associated infections that led to the cardiac arrest. We did our best and ensured proper medication. Hence, it is not a case of medical negligence,” Dr Surendra Shetty, Spine surgeon, Spine Care and Ortho Care Hospital told Deccan Herald.

 He said that the patient was suspected to be suffering from viral pneumonia and H1N1 as well. “We have lodged a complaint against Venkatesh’s relatives as they damaged the hospital properties,” he said.