Giriraj Singh’s case was not unique but the reason for which he dragged Dr. Saharan to the Uttarakhand State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission was something. It’s a good lesson in law, which makes this a good read.
Giriraj Singh had suffered a fracture in his right hand below the elbow and visited Dr. Saharan who, diagnosed it as regular case of fracture and displacement. He diligently set the bone right and the screw was used to tighten it. Couple of months later when the patient visited the doctor for a follow-up, an x-ray clearly showed that the bone was united. About 4 months after the clean-chit from Dr. Saharan, pain in Giriraj Singh’s right arm returned. It was discovered that there was malunion of bones. Without taking a second opinion or even waiting a second to reflect and understand the reason, he dashed to Uttarakhand State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, alleging the doctor of negligence and malpractice. He claimed that the doctor had assured him of a complete recovery but instead the condition of his hand got worse. Despite takin fees, the doctor cheated him, vented out Giriraj Singh.
The Commission did not take any of the claims seriously. The patient was told plainly that there was no specific allegation made. Or a statement explaining what could the doctor have done differently. Moreover, the real reason for the malunion of bones was the drinking and smoking habit, which was admitted by yourself, the patient was reminded. It interferes with the union of bones and it is a proven medical fact.
Thankfully for Dr. Sahara, Giriraj Singh’s smoking and drinking habit didn’t harm him at all.
Source: Order pronounced by Uttarakhand State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission on 25th October, 2016