Newborn's Death at Cuttack Private Hospital Sparks Allegations of Medical Negligence

Newborn from Jajpur Passes Away in Cuttack Hospital, Family Alleges Medical Negligence Over Lack of Proper Care Despite Ventilator Facility

Tension gripped a private hospital in Cuttack's CDA area after a newborn baby, reportedly from Jajpur, tragically passed away, with family members alleging medical negligence. The incident unfolded on Monday, following the baby’s transfer from Sishu Bhawan to the private facility.

According to sources, the baby boy had initially been admitted to Sishu Bhawan on October 26. Due to specific treatment needs and the belief that the private hospital offered more advanced facilities, the family later moved the infant there. Hospital doctors communicated that the baby was under active treatment and on ventilator support.

However, the family's hopes were shattered when they were informed that their son had not survived. Overcome with grief and frustration, family members raised an outcry within the hospital, asserting that negligence on the part of medical staff was responsible for the baby’s untimely death.

Prashan Biswal, a relative of the deceased child, explained, “We decided to admit him here because we were told they had a ventilator facility, but he was placed in the ICU with only oxygen support. This negligence caused our loss.”

The baby’s grandmother, equally devastated, shared her story of the family’s efforts to meet treatment costs. “The doctor had assured us of recovery,” she said. “We deposited Rs 50,000, and I had gone back home to bring additional funds. But at 4 pm, I received a call from my son, delivering the heartbreaking news.”

Efforts to reach the hospital authorities for a statement have so far been unfruitful. This incident, like similar cases of alleged medical negligence, raises critical concerns about healthcare quality, particularly regarding newborn care in private institutions.

Family members of patients, grieving loved ones, and communities increasingly express concern over the lack of accountability, and this latest incident in Cuttack underscores the pressing need for oversight and transparency in medical facilities. The baby's death continues to be a topic of intense emotion and scrutiny among the affected family and community members.