The reputation of Manipal Hospital is facing a serious crisis as multiple incidents of negligence and malpractice have surfaced, igniting widespread concern among patients and their families. With increasing complaints making their way to social media, it’s clear that the public is demanding accountability and transparency from one of the region’s prominent healthcare institutions.
A Legacy of Negligence
In a striking case, the Supreme Court ordered Bengaluru’s Manipal Hospital to pay ₹10 lakh in compensation to the widow of J Douglas Luiz, a patient who suffered severe vocal cord damage due to alleged negligence during a surgical procedure in 2003. Luiz developed hoarseness after undergoing lung surgery, a condition that his surgeon initially attributed to the excision of a tumor. However, as his condition deteriorated, subsequent consultations revealed that improper intubation during anaesthesia had caused his vocal cord dislocation.
Despite the Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru assurances, Luiz’s condition remained unchanged, leading him to seek legal redress. After years of battling for justice, he tragically passed away in 2015, prompting his wife to pursue a higher compensation claim, which the Supreme Court ultimately upheld.
Dark Shadows in Organ Transplantation
The issues plaguing Manipal Hospital Jaipur extend beyond individual cases. In May 2024, Jaipur police arrested two doctors linked to an illegal organ transplantation scheme, revealing a troubling pattern of misconduct within the hospital. The Anti-Corruption Bureau’s investigation identified multiple doctors across various hospitals, including Manipal, who were implicated in unethical practices.
In light of these revelations, the state authority for the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act (THOTA) suspended Jaipur’s Manipal Hospital registration due to its suspected involvement in fraudulent organ transplant activities. This incident raises significant alarm about the integrity of healthcare operations in the region.
The Power of Social Media
Amid these scandals, patients and their families are increasingly turning to social media platforms to voice their grievances. Many have shared personal stories of negligence, misdiagnoses, and inadequate care, calling attention to their distressing experiences. This surge in online discourse reflects a growing distrust in the healthcare system and a demand for change.
On social media also, there is a significant outcry against Manipal Hospital, with patients from various locations voicing their frustrations over issues such as overcharging, unprofessional behavior, and alleged harassment by staff. Many individuals have shared their distressing experiences, highlighting inadequate responses from the hospital to their complaints. This growing chorus of discontent underscores a deepening crisis of confidence in the institution, prompting calls for accountability and improved patient care.
These troubling incidents of Manipal Hospital Jaipur, Bengaluru and other locations have raised significant questions about the operational standards at Manipal Hospital. With serious allegations of negligence and corruption coming to light, it is essential for healthcare authorities to intervene and ensure that patient safety is prioritized.
The community’s outcry is a stark reminder of the critical need for transparency and accountability in healthcare. As patients continue to share their stories, the responsibility lies with both the hospital and regulatory bodies to address these concerns and restore public trust.
As the situation unfolds, it is imperative for Manipal Hospital to take proactive measures to rectify these issues, prioritize patient care, and rebuild its reputation. The path forward requires a commitment to ethical practices and a genuine focus on the well-being of those it serves.