The Kerala High Court has declined to direct government doctors to conduct specific diagnostic tests on a retired Indian Air Force personnel, observing that medical decisions such as prescribing CT scans or MRI scans fall within the professional judgment of treating doctors and cannot be dictated by patients. The ruling came in a writ petition filed by Arun P.K. seeking directions for a detailed medical examination.
Background of the Case
The petitioner, Arun P.K., told the Court that he had been suffering from severe pain and unusual sensations in his head. He claimed that after visiting the General Hospital, Ernakulam, on June 4, 2026, he was not properly examined and was not advised to undergo diagnostic tests such as a CT scan or MRI despite explaining his symptoms. He therefore approached the High Court seeking directions to ensure a specialist examined him and ordered appropriate investigations.
The State, however, submitted that apart from the outpatient ticket, there was no material to show that the petitioner had actually consulted any doctor. It argued that diagnostic tests are ordinarily prescribed only after a medical examination and a provisional diagnosis.
Court's Observation
Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas found that the petition lacked sufficient material to establish any deficiency on the part of the hospital.
The Court observed,
“A patient has to go by the advice of the doctor and not the doctor to abide by the 'directions' of the patient.” It further noted that whether a CT scan, MRI scan or any other investigation is required is a matter within the doctor's diagnostic prerogative, and a patient cannot insist that a particular test be prescribed.
Decision
Closing the writ petition, the High Court held that no justiciable cause had been made out. At the same time, it recorded the State's submission that doctors at the General Hospital were willing to examine and treat the petitioner whenever he approached them.
The Court permitted Arun P.K. to visit the appropriate hospital, including the General Hospital, Ernakulam, for proper diagnosis and treatment of his medical condition.
Case Details
Case Title: Arun P.K. v. State of Kerala
Case Number: WP(C) No. 22119 of 2026
Judge: Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas
Decision Date: 13 July 2026
