Overview of the Illegal Pathology Laboratories in Gujarat
In Gujarat, approximately 10,000 pathology laboratories are allegedly operating illegally. As per regulations, an MD in Pathology is a mandatory qualification for running a laboratory. However, reports indicate that individuals with only 10th or 12th-grade qualifications, currently enrolled in Medical Lab Technology courses, are operating these labs.
For nearly two decades, the Gujarat State Pathologists & Microbiologists Association and lab technicians have been contentious about whether a pathology laboratory is eligible to operate.
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Legal Proceedings and Court Rulings
In 2006, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in the Gujarat High Court concerning this matter. The court ruled in 2010 that only a doctor with a recognized MD degree should be permitted to operate a pathology lab.
This ruling was later challenged in the Supreme Court. In 2017, the Supreme Court upheld the High Court’s decision, emphasizing that all laboratory reports must be signed by an MD Pathologist. Reports signed by unqualified individuals were deemed illegal, and violators were subject to legal action.
Despite these clear judicial orders, the problem persists, particularly in rural areas.
Continued Violations and Health Risks
In 2017, the Gujarat Association of Pathologists and Microbiologists submitted a list of 512 illegal laboratories to the police. However, no significant legal action has been taken to date.
Some labs resort to using virtual signatures on reports, which are invalid. According to Dr. Mahendra Patel, former president of the association, inaccurate diagnoses stemming from falsified reports pose serious health risks to patients.
Malpractice and Indifference
Reports have surfaced about laboratory licenses being misused. For example, some labs display the name of an MD Pathologist on their boards, but tests are conducted by technicians. These reports are signed by MD Pathologists to appear legitimate, perpetuating malpractice. Despite these ongoing issues, the health department has shown little initiative to resolve them effectively.
Lokayukta Intervention
The issue has also been brought to the attention of the Gujarat Lokayukta. Recently, the Lokayukta requested a detailed report from the state health department. District health officers were instructed to inspect laboratories, gather information about their ownership, verify the qualifications of pathologists, and review the testing methods and equipment.
However, no updates on the outcomes of these investigations have been made available, further highlighting the administrative inaction.
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