The teen was allegedly treated for her breathing issues based on an x-ray belonging to an 88-year-old woman
The doctor is said to have examined the x-ray, concluded it showed a spinal curvature, and prescribed medication accordingly. Doctors there are said to have found discrepancies between the patient’s age and the x-ray findings, prompting further inquiry. The hospital’s probe report is also said to have found fault with the patient’s bystanders for not verifying whether they had received the correct report.
The mix-up reportedly surfaced when the girl was taken to General Hospital, Pathanamthitta, three days later for a follow-up chest examination. The girl’s parents subsequently raised a complaint with Konni Medical College over the alleged lapse and sought an explanation from the radiologist. Child rights panel acting chairperson C Sicily Joseph has taken up the case suo motu on behalf of the commission. Reports have reportedly been sought from director of medical education, Konni hospital superintendent, and Konni SHO.
The girl reportedly continued the prescribed medication for four days before the error came to light.
The girl was brought to the medical college on Sept 14 with some breathing difficulties, according to officials. However, the radiologist reportedly handed over an x-ray belonging to an 88-year-old patient, showing a curvature of the spine. She was referred to the radiology department for a chest x-ray on the treating doctor’s advice.
The action against Shaul Hameed, who was working in the dispatch section, was based on an inquiry report submitted by the hospital superintendent before the medical college principal.