Key Points:
Pathology reports in Pune carried a doctor’s signature months after his death on November 20, 2025.
Reports were issued until January 2026 and detected during insurance verification.
At least six labs across Bhosari, Swargate, Narhe, Daund, Ahilyanagar, Shevgaon and Shrigonda involved.
MAPPM filed complaint on February 18 seeking action from District Collector Jitendra Dudi and Maharashtra Medical Council.
Authorities ordered probe; experts warn fake reports can cause wrong treatment and serious patient harm.
Authorities in Pune have initiated an investigation after several pathology reports were issued under the name of a pathologist who had died months earlier, raising serious concerns about patient safety and diagnostic authenticity.
The Maharashtra Association of Practicing Pathologists and Microbiologists filed a complaint stating that laboratory reports continued to carry the deceased doctor’s signature even after his death on November 20, 2025. The reports were reportedly generated until January 2026.
The association described the matter as a grave violation of medical ethics and demanded strict action.
The issue surfaced when patients submitted pathology reports while filing health insurance claims. During verification, an insurance company noticed discrepancies and alerted the association.
A preliminary inquiry found that pathology laboratories and private hospitals across multiple locations issued reports in the dead doctor’s name. The affected areas include Bhosari, Swargate, Narhe, Daund, Ahilyanagar, Shevgaon and Shrigonda.
So far, six laboratories have been identified, though officials believe more cases may emerge since such irregularities often surface only during insurance scrutiny.
Medical experts warned that pathology reports directly influence diagnosis and treatment decisions.
Dr Prasad Kulkarni from the association said unauthorized reports can put patients at serious risk.
Association president Dr Sandeep Yadav explained that a pathologist must physically supervise testing before signing reports. Signing reports without conducting or supervising tests can result in suspension from medical practice for at least six months.
Incorrect reports may lead to delayed treatment, unnecessary medication and potentially life threatening consequences.
On February 18, the association wrote to Pune district collector Jitendra Dudi and the Maharashtra Medical Council seeking a probe and action against those responsible.
Maharashtra Medical Council president Dr Vinky Rughwani confirmed the complaint and said strict action will follow after investigation.
The district collector stated that the district civil surgeon will conduct the inquiry and necessary administrative action will be taken based on findings.
(Rh/ARC)
