Bio-chem grad in dock after posing as pathologist

MUMBAI:THE Mumbai police filed a first information report (FIR) against a biochemistry graduate for signing reports as a pathologist for several hospitals and laboratories across Dadar, Kurla and Ghatkopar.

The Maharashtra Practicing Pathologist Association (MAPP), which filed the complaint against the youth, said they came across the accused through patients. MAPP now wants the state to form stringent norms to prevent unauthorised people from signing medical reports.

Dr Subodh Gujarathi, a pathologist in Ghatkopar who filed the complaint with police, said, “The man claimed to be a pathologist with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. We checked with Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) about his registration number and were surprised to find out he is not even registered as a practising doctor.”

During the probe, it was revealed that the accused was registered with the Association of Clinical Biochemists of India, which is a body of biochemists.

“Despite being unaware of the nuances of pathology, this man signed several reports for the last two years. This is a great threat to patients, as pathology

is used for diagnosing a disease. An incorrect pathology report can lead to a flawed diagnosis and subsequent flawed treatment, which can even cause a patient’s death,” Gujarathi added.

Officers from Pant Nagar police station in Ghatkopar, who are investigating the case, said it is merely a result of professional difference between the two parties, and the accused claimed he was appointed as per the regulations made at the time of his appointment.

Rohini Kale, senior police inspector, Pant Nagar police station, said, “The issue is technical. So we are investigating the alleged violations and will take action soon.”