Kochi: The Kerala High Court issued a directive to the state government to take necessary measures to verify the education certificates of all doctors working in government-run hospitals. The Court emphasized that guidelines are essential to ensure that appointment orders for medical practitioners are issued only after their educational certificates are verified and authenticated by the respective universities or institutions that have given them. If required, the education certificates of all government doctors currently employed should be verified.
The Court clarified that this move is not intended to demoralize hardworking doctors, who are a source of pride and strength for the state. Instead, it is aimed at ensuring that individuals with fraudulent credentials do not enter the medical profession and to instil confidence in society.
The Court added that it is the responsibility of the government to address these concerns and create a doctor-friendly environment in society. In support of its position, the Court cited the words of Carl Jung, who stated that while medicines cure diseases, it is only doctors who can truly heal patients.
This decision came after hearing a petitioner, Sreedevi, who had a distressing experience at the Taluk Headquarters Hospital, Karunagappally while delivering her baby. Allegedly, a doctor with questionable credentials attended to her, leading to severe complications and the unfortunate delivery of a stillborn baby. Through an RTI application, the petitioner discovered that the doctor had failed in a relevant course despite claiming to have an MBBS and MS degree.
In response to the serious allegations and the registration of a crime in the matter, the Court directed the State Police Chief to establish a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a thorough investigation within one week. The SIT was further ordered to submit an action taken report within one month.
The Court also expressed its belief that the public health sector requires greater scrutiny and urged the government to include its perspectives on the issue in its affidavit. The case is scheduled for further hearing on September 4th.
