GMC Handwara refutes negligence claims after viral trolley video, CT Scan machine fault cited

Kupwara, Dec 20: A viral video showing a patient being shifted on a trolley from the Associated District Hospital, Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara, to the market area for a CT scan triggered widespread concern and criticism on social media on Wednesday.

Responding to the incident, the Medical Superintendent of the Associated District Hospital, GMC Handwara, addressed a press conference on Thursday and refuted allegations of negligence levelled by sections of the media and on social platforms. He said the hospital’s CT scan machine had become non-functional due to a software-related issue, following which the patient was advised to undergo the scan at SDH Kupwara or GMC Baramulla.

The Medical Superintendent stated that despite being informed of the alternatives, the patient’s attendants opted to take the patient outside the hospital premises on a trolley after learning that CT scan services were available at a nearby private diagnostic centre. “Our security guard repeatedly requested them not to take the hospital trolley outside, but they did not comply and moved towards the market area,” he said.

He further informed that an internal inquiry committee has been constituted to investigate the incident and ascertain the facts. Meanwhile, a Junior Resident Doctor has been placed under suspension pending the outcome of the inquiry, he added.

The incident has once again raised concerns over healthcare infrastructure at the hospital, even as the administration maintained that standard protocols were followed and the matter is under internal review.