The State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, Uttarakhand, recently examined a long-running dispute arising from the death of a six-month fetus during pregnancy treatment. The case was brought by a couple who alleged medical negligence and deficiency in service by a hospital and a treating gynecologist at a maternity and trauma centre where the woman had received antenatal care. After reviewing the facts, the Commission dismissed the appeal, holding that there was no medical evidence establishing negligence on the part of the doctor or the hospital.
The matter dates back to 2013 when the complainant’s wife, who was pregnant, began receiving treatment under the supervision of the gynecologist. According to the complainants, during the initial consultation the doctor assured them that the pregnancy was normal and that the hospital had the necessary facilities to handle emergencies.…