Caught On Camera: Maharashtra Medical Officer found drunk, inquiry ordered

Following this, the Medical Superintendent in charge of the hospital, Dr Mahesh Lahane was alerted about the incident and as a result he took prompt action against the doctor based on gathered evidence. 

Acknowledging the severity of the situation, Dr Lahane informed higher officials and initiated departmental action against the doctor. As a consequence, he was relieved from duties at Karanja Hospital.

“The incident took place on December 24, and I received a call about the incident at around 6 pm, saying that the doctor posted on emergency duty was in a drunk state. I raised the issue with higher officials,” Lahane told the daily adding that further action will be taken against him. 

Medical Dialogues team had earlier reported that the Ethics and Medical Registration Board (EMRB) of the National Medical Commission (NMC) specified that intoxication during duty or off duty affecting professional practice will be considered as misconduct resulting in suspension.

As per the Draft Registered Medical Practitioner (Professional Conduct) Regulations, 2022, doctors can now get suspended for a period ranging from 3 months to 3 years if they are found guilty of attending patients while intoxicated.

"Use of Alcohol or other intoxicants during duty or off duty which can affect professional practice will constitute misconduct. (L3, L4)," read Section 23 of the Draft Regulations.

Also read- Odisha Paediatrician Attends To Patients In Inebriated State, Video Goes Viral