Doctor Charged in Patient's Death Over Implant Dispute

Over a year after a patient's death, Chandigarh police have filed a chargesheet against one doctor for alleged medical negligence. The treating doctor, identified as Dr. Parminder, faces charges under Section 304A of the Indian Penal Code. The investigation concluded that sufficient evidence existed to prosecute this doctor, while three other medical staff members were cleared due to a lack of evidence.

The case stems from the death of Amarjit Kaur, a 74-year-old woman, in April 2024, following surgery for a fractured femur. Her son alleged that Landmark Hospital failed to provide MRI compatibility certification for the implant used during her surgery. This omission reportedly delayed necessary diagnostic scans when she was later admitted with disorientation and critically low sodium levels.

Medical records indicated the patient had initially refused admission when advised on April 3, 2024. However, audio transcripts suggested discussions about obtaining written certification for the implant's MRI compatibility. The UT medical board noted the patient developed complications, including low serum sodium, about 15 days post-surgery.

Further clarification from Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector 32, where Kaur was eventually admitted, stated her cause of death was septic shock. While her sodium levels were low upon admission, they were corrected during treatment.