The Supreme Court has rightly pointed out that a mere deviation from normal professional practice is not necessarily evidence of medical negligence (Feb. 11). It is a landmark judgment that will help many doctors who are facing cases of negligence, not all of which are genuine. However, the ruling cannot be cited in all cases. The intention of the doctor in choosing a particular type of treatment should be considered while deciding the matter. A doctor who chooses a procedure that has a higher element of risk when other options with relatively less complications are available should explain his decision to the patient and relatives.
N. Srinivasa Ragavan,
Chennai
The Supreme Court has given doctors leeway in cases of medical negligence, which is welcome. Doctors are respected across the world because they save lives. It is, therefore, important to give them space to work. The verdict shows that the law understands that we are all human and no human being can be accurate all the time. The verdict also clearly states that doctors cannot afford to be complacent. They can be prosecuted if they do not exercise an ordinary degree of professional skill and competence.
R. Chockalingam,
Chennai
