The Uttar Pradesh government has initiated a probe after a shocking incident at the Government Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS) in Greater Noida. The body of a deceased patient remained unattended in the hospital’s morgue for a staggering 17 days. The patient, who had been admitted to GIMS on July 22 after suffering a brain stroke, tragically passed away on September 23. However, due to a lack of response from a guardian, the hospital allegedly “forgot” about the body for almost three weeks.
A statement from GIMS indicated that the individual who had brought the patient to the hospital remained inaccessible throughout the patient’s treatment and after their passing. While the hospital had provided free-of-cost treatment, it eventually contacted the local Kasna police station regarding the situation.
“The institute staff had carelessly kept the body in the freezer for 17 days and forgot about it. Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak said the entire incident will be investigated, and strict action will be taken against those responsible,” stated the Uttar Pradesh state government.
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak also holds the position of state health minister. The state government has now instructed officials to thoroughly investigate this troubling case. Furthermore, the principal secretary of the Medical Education Department has been directed to seek an explanation from the director of GIMS.
In response, GIMS highlighted that the patient had received free treatment for over two months, with multiple hospital departments involved in their care. The hospital acknowledged the difficulties in managing destitute patients left in their care by the police or attendants.
This shocking incident underscores the need for better procedures, accountability, and oversight in hospitals to ensure the dignified and respectful treatment of deceased patients. The investigation will hopefully shed light on the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate situation and lead to measures to prevent such oversights in the future. Patient care and the management of mortal remains are essential aspects of healthcare that must be addressed with diligence and compassion.
