For an ailment as serious as AIDS, cross checking the findings and perhaps even double checking the reports is a prudent thing to do before declaring a patient positive for HIV. Wrong reporting in such a case not only affects the patient but also can tarnish healthcare provider’s image.
With a noble intention of donating his kidney, Badal Kumar had visited Belle Vue clinic to get his blood checked where he was reported HIV +. Like anyone would, Badal Kumar was shocked at this revelation, although he was sure in his heart that he did not have AIDS. To confirm the findings, he visited two other pathology labs and much to his delight it was reported non-reactive to HIV. While he was relieved of the worry, Badal Kumar was angry at the pathologists of Belle Vue clinic.
He approached the State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, West Bengal and laid bare the facts.
The Commission seemed to be shocked too at the wrong reporting by Belle Vue clinic. It was observed that the patient got his blood checked from two other pathology labs and both reported non-reactive for HIV and hence it was clear that the pathologists at Belle Vue clinic did not take care in reporting such a serious ailment which was a breach of duty.
A compensation of one lakh was awarded to Badal Kumar. But he was happy to donate the kidney and even more so knowing that he was hale and hearty.
Source: Order pronounced by State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, West Bengal on 23rd March, 2018.