Dubai — A civil court in Dubai has ordered a private medical centre to pay Dh1.5 million in compensation after a patient was seriously harmed due to a misdiagnosis and treatment error.
Background
The case involved a woman who visited the centre for what was presumed to be optic neuritis. The doctor instead diagnosed her with myasthenia gravis and prescribed daily doses of 50 mg corticosteroids. Over time, she developed osteoporosis and a stress fracture in her hip joint, which an orthopaedic specialist only later discovered.
An investigation by the Dubai Health Authority’s Medical Liability Committee found the doctor’s diagnosis was “100 per cent proven” as incorrect, and that he had ignored test results and continued high-dose treatment without adequate monitoring.
Court’s Findings & Judgment
- The court held the medical centre liable under Article 313 of the Civil Transactions Law, which holds employers responsible for the acts of their staff.
- It stated that the harm — both physical and psychological — justified the high compensation.
- The amount includes interest of 5 per cent per annum from the date the ruling becomes final, plus legal-fees and court costs.
Significance
- The ruling underscores the high standard of care expected from medical professionals in Dubai.
- It signals to healthcare providers that misdiagnoses with serious downstream consequences may result in substantial liability.
- Patients have a channel for redress when medical error and negligence can be demonstrated through proper investigations and expert reports.