The public health department has suspended the services of Dr Yavanti Gawade, medical officer at the community health centre (CHC) in Valpoi, with immediate effect, following a medical negligence case that led to the amputation of an 11-year-old boy's leg. The suspension order was issued based on preliminary observations from an internal committee, which indicated medical negligence by the doctor.
Incident Details
The boy was brought to the CHC's casualty department on April 27 at 3:30 pm with a history of a fall and injury to his left leg. Dr Gawade, the medical officer on duty, examined him and advised an X-ray, which revealed a non-displaced closed fracture of the left fibula. As part of initial management, a plaster slab was advised, and it was applied by multi-tasking staff member Suresh, who was assisting orthopedic residents from the Goa Medical College (GMC) and functioning as an orthopedic assistant.
Subsequent Complications
On April 28 at 6:15 pm, the patient was brought back to the CHC's casualty department with complaints of fever, vomiting, and drowsiness. He was examined and immediately referred to the GMC. At the GMC, it was discovered that the boy had developed oedema of the toes and underwent amputation of the affected limb due to gangrene.
Internal Committee Findings
The internal committee, after detailed discussion and review of records, observed that the plaster slab procedure was carried out by assisting staff without adequate direct supervision and documented reassessment by the treating medical officer. The committee also noted that urgent orthopedic consultation or referral at the initial stage could have been considered, given the patient's age and fracture-related risks.
Suspension Order
The public health department's order stated: 'Government has decided to indefinitely suspend the services of Dr Yavanti Gawade, medical officer, community health centre, Valpoi, with immediate effect till a detailed inquiry is completed into the matter by a committee of experts. She shall not be entitled for any remuneration and allowances during the said duration.'
