Private hospitals view patients like ATM machines: Allahabad High Court Denies Relief to Doctor

The Allahabad High Court has refused to quash criminal proceedings against a doctor accused of negligence in a 2007 case involving the death of a foetus.

The Court strongly criticised private hospitals, saying many treat patients like “ATMs” to extract money, prioritising profit over care.

The Court noted a 4 to 5 hour delay between consent for a C-section and the actual surgery, allegedly due to the absence of an anaesthetist.

The Court held that such delay and lack of basic facilities indicate negligence, and legal protection applies only to doctors who exercise due skill, not those running ill-equipped clinics. (Dr. Ashok Kumar Rai vs. State of U.P. and Another)