Medical authorities in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, are facing scrutiny following an incident where a government hospital turned away a pregnant woman, claiming her unborn child had died. The woman subsequently delivered a healthy baby at a private hospital, highlighting a stark contrast in care.
Vinod Saw recounted that he brought his wife, Manisha Devi, to Sheikh Bhikhari Medical College and Hospital, after a long journey. The medical staff, however, refused to admit her, citing low hemoglobin and alleging fetal demise. Undeterred, Vinod sought help at a private facility, where Manisha successfully delivered a healthy infant. Vinod Saw praised the private hospital’s doctors for ensuring a safe delivery.
The incident has prompted an official inquiry. Hazaribagh’s Deputy Commissioner, Shashi Prakash Singh, has initiated an investigation into the matter, instructing the Sheikh Bhikhari Medical College and Hospital’s superintendent to establish a committee. The Deputy Commissioner emphasized that government hospitals are meant to provide affordable and quality care, but in this instance, treatment was denied. According to Dr. Praveen Kumar, the private hospital owner, Manisha underwent several essential tests after admission, and the results were favorable. Both mother and child are now in good health.