Four doctors in Alappuzha, including two from the Kadappuram Government Women and Child Hospital, have been booked after a couple accused them of failing to diagnose genetic disorders in their newborn despite multiple prenatal scans. The case, registered on Tuesday, follows a complaint by Anish and Surumi, who alleged that the doctors did not detect any abnormalities in the baby’s genetic condition.
The couple claimed Surumi underwent several scans at two diagnostic centers—Midas Health Care and Shankar’s Health Scans—between July and November. Despite abnormal fetal development, the doctors reportedly reassured the parents that there were no issues. The couple only learned of the newborn’s condition after delivery on November 8, when the baby was born with severe deformities. Prior to delivery, Surumi had been referred to the Government Medical College Hospital (MCH) after issues with fetal movement and heartbeat were detected.
One of the accused doctors responded by stating that she had treated Surumi during the early stages of pregnancy and that while there were concerns about the fetus’s growth, the scans did not show significant issues at that time. The diagnostic centers also denied errors in the scan reports.
Health Minister Veena George has ordered a special investigation, with a team led by the Additional Director of the Health Department, to probe the allegations and review the scanning centers involved. Action will be taken if lapses are found.
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