Doctor Directed to Go on Compulsory Leave After Alleged Misconduct at Kottarakkara Taluk Hospital

Kollam: A doctor at Kottarakkara Taluk Hospital has been directed to go on compulsory leave following an incident in which the doctor behaved inappropriately towards a patient and those accompanying them. The action was taken after an inquiry by the Health Department’s vigilance wing, led by Deputy DMO Srihari.

The vigilance team visited the hospital, recorded statements from the superintendent, doctors and other staff, and collected CCTV footage as part of the investigation.

Reports of Dr Rekha Krishna, who was on casualty duty, allegedly behaving improperly towards the patient and the companions had earlier emerged in the media. Following the incident, the hospital superintendent had also issued her a show-cause notice.

The incident occurred around midnight on Sunday. The doctor allegedly behaved inappropriately towards a resident of Pachoor in Vettikkavala who arrived at the hospital with severe chest pain and a female relative.

The doctor told them that the emergency facility was not meant for people to rush into at night and that patients should come to the hospital during the daytime. The doctor also allegedly made remarks telling them to get their illnesses treated before 6 pm and not to leave home after that time.

There have reportedly been several earlier complaints and actions against the doctor over alleged misconduct towards patients. The DYFI had also staged a protest over the incident.