Venu’s death at TVM Medical College: Report cites serious lapses

Kollam: An inquiry report by an expert panel appointed by the Directorate of Medical Education (DME) has found serious lapses in the death of Venu, a native of Chavara, at the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital (MCH).

Venu died on November 5 last year while undergoing treatment for a heart condition. The panel’s key finding is that his life could have been saved had emergency care been provided at the Kollam District Hospital.

The report points to grave failures at multiple levels, involving hospitals and staff under the Health Department, from the Community Health Centre (CHC) to the Thiruvananthapuram MCH. Venu was referred to the medical college from Kollam as his condition was critical. However, despite the seriousness of his condition, he was not admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

The controversy has intensified following the emergence of a voice message allegedly sent by Venu, in which he claimed he was denied proper treatment.

The inquiry also noted that at the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College, attendants and other staff were unwilling even to move the patient inside the hospital. Reports had earlier suggested that Venu was treated while lying on the floor.

Although he was later shifted to a medical ward, the panel found that there were further delays in initiating treatment. The report stressed the need for hospital staff to treat patients with dignity and respect.