Lucknow: Hospitals and doctors cannot refuse or delay treatment to a person injured in a road accident on the ground that medico-legal formalities or police procedures have not been completed, Lucknow bench of Allahabad high court said on Friday.
Court Mandates State Compliance on Road Accident Victim Care
The court has ordered the state government to submit a counter-affidavit within 10 days. This document must outline the measures taken to align with the Supreme Court’s directives and the guidelines set by the Union government regarding the treatment of victims of road accidents.
The court emphasized that all medical professionals have a duty to safeguard human life by providing immediate care to injured individuals, regardless of fault in the accident. The bench stated that procedural requirements should not impede this critical responsibility.
New Hospital Guidelines Protect Good Samaritans
Hospitals are now mandated to display a charter at their entrances in Hindi, English, and the local language. This charter informs the public that individuals who assist injured persons, known as Good Samaritans, will not be detained or required to pay for the victim’s treatment. These guidelines apply to both public and private healthcare facilities, ensuring that bystanders can provide help without fear of legal or financial repercussions.
Lack of Emergency Care Raises Concerns in Lucknow Hospital
A recent Public Interest Litigation (PIL) highlighted a concerning issue at a well-known hospital in Lucknow. The PIL included a photograph showing a notice on the hospital’s exterior, indicating that it does not treat medico-legal cases, which encompass burn and accident incidents.
According to established medical guidelines, a doctor who fails to respond to emergencies, particularly those arising from road accidents, may be found guilty of professional misconduct. Such negligence can lead to disciplinary actions against the medical professional involved.