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Meghwal Launches Medico-Legal Guide, Urges Compassion in Doctor Conduct

Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal launched the "Medico Legal Guide," a book designed to make medical professionals more legally aware and accountable. He emphasized that compassionate behavior from doctors is itself therapeutic, citing examples from hospitals in the US and Jabalpur. Supreme Court Justice Hima Kohli noted the book covers critical issues like euthanasia and the breakdown of trust that leads to litigation. The guide, authored by legal and medical experts, is presented as a vital resource for navigating the intersection of healthcare and law.

Key Points: Medico-Legal Guide Launched to Improve Doctor-Patient Relations

  • Guide for doctors on legal issues
  • Stresses compassion in treatment
  • Aims to reduce medico-legal cases
  • Features chapters on euthanasia, patient rights
3 min read

Union MoS Arjun Ram Meghwal launches 'Medico Legal Guide', stresses compassion in medical practice

Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal launches a medico-legal guidebook, stressing compassionate behavior as crucial to patient care and reducing legal disputes.

"Half of the disease is gone with good behaviour by the doctor. - Arjun Ram Meghwal"

New Delhi, February 7

Union Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, on Friday, launched a book on medico-legal issues, in which he questioned why doctors can't behave well.

"Half of the disease is gone with good behaviour by the doctor."

He emphasised the importance of good behaviour in medical treatment. While launching the book "Medico Legal Guide", Meghwal said, "This book will play an important role in making medical professionals more competent, aware and accountable by giving them the knowledge of law and medico-legal provisions."

During his address, Meghwal also cited the example of a US hospital where the son of businessman Anil Agarwal died due to cancer. Still, he was satisfied with the behaviour of the doctor, para-medical staff, etc.

"Can't we behave in a good manner?" Meghwal questioned. He further cited the example of a cancer hospital in Jabalpur run by a Sadhvi. He said that he visited the hospital and was surprised to see the service and compassion shown to cancer patients. The Sadhvi used to perform the last rites of patients who were left by their family members, minister highlighted.

He was speaking at the launch of the book authored by Advocate Rakesh Malhotra, Deepak Singla, Advocate Kushal Malhotra and Arushi Singla.

The occasion was graced by Justice Hima Kohli, former judge of the Supreme Court; Justice Madhu Jain of the Delhi High Court; VK Paul, Member, NITI Aayog; Atul M. Kochhar, CEO, NABH; former MP Sushil Gupta; senior advocate N Hariharan, President, Delhi High Court Bar Association; and other dignitaries.

Justice Hima Kohli, while addressing the gathering, touched upon medical issues like euthanasia, prenatal sex determination and the right to die with dignity. She said the book includes chapters on medico-legal issues.

She said that the relationship between a doctor and a patient is based on trust. When trust breaks down, legal cases follow. She also said that many of the cases against doctors are false. This book will help readers gain knowledge of these areas.

VK Paul, a member of NITI Aayog, said the book is co-authored by Deepak Singla, a very senior doctor. This book will help doctors understand the medico-legal issues they face every day.

He also highlighted the government's efforts to strengthen the medical sector's competence and effectiveness. Deepak Singla said this book will help doctors understand medico-legal issues. It will also help them communicate with others once they understand their responsibilities.

Advocate Rakesh Malhotra said the book includes chapters on various issues at the intersection of medicine and law. It is a book of dos and don'ts for doctors and lawyers.

Former MP Sushil Gupta also addressed the gathering and shared his views. He said he always asks doctors to give patients time and speak to them politely. "It will cure half of the disease."

Atul M Kochhar said that such books are rare and will help professionals gain knowledge of medico-legal issues.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Finally! A much-needed focus on the human side of medicine. In our rush, we often forget that patients are scared and vulnerable. The example of the Sadhvi in Jabalpur is truly inspiring. Compassion should be part of the medical curriculum.
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Aman W
While I appreciate the sentiment, the reality in government hospitals is different. Doctors are overworked, dealing with hundreds of patients a day. The system needs more doctors and better infrastructure first, then we can talk about "behavior". The pressure is immense.
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Sarah B
The legal aspect is crucial. Many doctors practice defensively because they fear litigation. A guide that clarifies their legal rights and duties will empower them to make better clinical decisions without constant fear. This should reduce unnecessary tests and procedures too.
K
Karthik V
Trust is a two-way street. Yes, doctors must be compassionate. But patients and their families also need to understand medical limitations and not resort to violence or false cases when outcomes aren't as expected. Justice Kohli's point about false cases is very valid.
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Nisha Z
"Half the disease is gone with good behaviour" – this ancient Indian wisdom from Ayurveda is so true! Modern medicine often ignores the mind-body connection. A gentle word, a smile, it costs nothing but means everything to a suffering patient. Good step by the government.

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