1Department of forensic medicine, University college of medical sciences & G.T.B. hospital, Dilshad garden, Delhi-110095.
While conducting autopsies, a doctor often comes across a case, which shows a chance evidence of obvious gross medical negligence. But due to systemic restrictions, he cannot take an initiative to report such cases in a manner where in the affected families can get due compensations. His dilemma is further enhanced by the fact that the lay people and the law enforcement agencies are not in a position to take cognizance in such cases. While highlighting three such case reports, the paper has made an attempt to discuss such problems. The obvious remedies involve a positive role to be played by the subject of Forensic Medicine, which will also help to enhance the standards of patient care and reducing the incidents of medical negligence.