Radiologists to challenge BMC notice in SC

“We are not against remedial measures that the state takes to curb misuse of ultrasound machines. However,banning the movement of the machine will only adversely affect treatment of patients,especially the elderly and bedridden. In case of an emergency,they will be deprived of timely treatment only because of a baseless rule,” said Jignesh Thakker,secretary general of the IRIA. He added that a meeting will be held on Sunday with radiologists across the state to discuss the issue following which the IRIA will approach the Supreme Court.

Concerned over the skewed child sex ratio in the state,the Bombay High Court in November had told the IRIA that portable ultrasound machines should not be used outside hospital premises. The state has around 2,382 registered ultrasound machines of which 1,618 are in Mumbai.

“We have asked radiologists to carry out all the necessary scans only at registered centres. Medical officers have also been stationed at the centres to keep a tab on the machines. In case rules are flouted,registration of the machine may be cancelled and the radiologist concerned will have to pay a fine to retrieve the machine,” said Dr Asha Advani,special officer of the Child and Family Welfare department of the BMC.