Supreme Court willing to understand Angst of Doctors

Listing of PIL by AHPI raises hope in the community

New Delhi: The PIL (Public Interest Litigation) to examine Plea on Applicability of Consumer Protection Act to Medical Professionals is listed in the Supreme Court. This has raised hopes in doctors community who is desperate to come out of CPA which, they say, is damaging the trust between healers and patients are and is quite demeaning . The PIL has been filed by AHPI (The Association of Healthcare Providers (India) and its former president and co founder Dr Alexander Thomas.

As treating patient is largely a human service, CPA has been pain in the butt of medical professionals ever since they were brought under it. They say it is suffocating for them. PIL will be an opportunity for patients to understand doctors’ angst and views.

The Association of Healthcare Providers (India) (AHPI) has welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision to examine the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking clarity on the applicability of the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), 2019 to medical professionals.

The Hon’ble Supreme Court has also issued notice to the concerned ministries and the National Medical Commission in response to the petition, which raises important questions regarding the inclusion of medical services within the ambit of consumer law.

AHPI has stated that the petition is not aimed at diluting accountability in healthcare, but at ensuring that medical negligence is addressed through mechanisms that are better aligned with the unique and sensitive nature of medical practice.

Dr Alexander Thomas Co-founder and Former President AHPI said:

“Having spent a lifetime in mission hospital service, I believe healthcare must always remain centred on the patient. We welcome the Hon’ble Supreme Court’s decision to examine this important issue. Grievance redressal should never become adversarial; it must serve as a bridge — built on communication, transparency, accountability, and humane resolution.”

AHPI has consistently maintained that the fear of prolonged litigation under consumer forums has contributed to defensive medical practices, often resulting in unnecessary diagnostic tests and procedures. The association believes this not only increases healthcare costs but may also impact the trust-based patient–doctor relationship.

Expressing his views, Dr Girdhar Gyani , Director General AHPI, said: “Accountability in healthcare is essential and non-negotiable. However, it must be ensured through robust, specialized regulatory and professional mechanisms that understand clinical realities. Our intent is to strengthen patient care standards while protecting doctors from a framework that may not fully reflect the complexities of medical science,” the spokesperson added.

AHPI has also highlighted that existing institutional mechanisms, including oversight by professional regulatory bodies and statutory medical authorities, are better suited to evaluate medical negligence in a balanced and technically informed manner.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to patient safety, ethical medical practice, and constructive dialogue with policymakers and stakeholders to build a healthcare system that is fair, transparent, and sustainable for both patients and providers.

About AHPI:

The Association of Healthcare Providers (India) is a representative body of healthcare institutions committed to advancing quality, accessibility, and ethical standards in healthcare delivery across India.