POONAM VERMA vs ASHWIN PATEL

The Supreme Court addressed the issue of medical negligence under the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, specifically examining the standards of care expected from medical practitioners. The Court held that the failure to conduct necessary diagnostic tests before administering treatment constituted negligence, thereby establishing that medical professionals must adhere to a standard of care that includes proper diagnosis. The appeal against the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission's dismissal of the appellant's claim for compensation was allowed, emphasizing the duty of care owed by medical practitioners to their patients.