The Medicos legal Action Group (MlAG) held a meeting to discuss the issue of quantum of compensation awarded in cases of medical negligence.
The doctors felt there have been recent compensations of exceedingly high amounts which are unrealistic and have serious implications on the functioning of medical fraternity. The MlAG is a non-profit trust registered at Chandigarh by a group of allopathic doctors from all over the country who legally engage the Government of India regarding its various policies concerning medical profession, training, working conditions.
In a statement, MlAG requested the Government and the law Commission to remove doctors from the ambit of Consumer Protection Act as the summary nature of proceedings is harmful for healthcare delivery in our country. At the very least they asked for a cap on compensation which can be claimed and awarded. Dr Rajender Sharma from Hoshiarpur and a trustee of this group said compensations of exceedingly high amounts are unrealistic and have serious implications for medical professionals and patients alike.
Dr Sandeep Dhavan from Chandigarh said unreasonable compensation would adversely affect the doctor-patient relationship. Dr Anil Kumar Secretary of this Group said if a doctor today has to cover himself against a claim of Rs 11.5 crore he will have to charge Rs 53 over and above his regular consultation fee to cover just for paying this premium.