Seeking to allay public concern over reports of 11 deaths at the Mysuru unit of Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, Medical Education Minister Sharan Prakash Patil on Wednesday (June 17) said the hospital’s mortality rate remains well below the national average and that there was no evidence of negligence or any unusual incident.

Speaking to reporters after reviewing the situation at the hospital, Dr. Patil said he had sought a comprehensive report on the deaths, including a detailed analysis of the causes in each case. The report will subsequently be examined by an independent team of cardiologists.

“The patients who died had been admitted on different days and were in critical condition. Prima facie, there is nothing to indicate any unnatural cause behind the deaths,” he said.

The Minister noted that the mortality rate at Jayadeva hospital’s Bengaluru, Mysuru and Kalaburagi units ranges between 4 and 6%, significantly lower than the national average of 9 to 11% for cardiac care institutions.

“I do not see any reason to doubt the treatment standards at Jayadeva hospital. The institution has been functioning efficiently and providing high-quality cardiac care,” he said.

Golden hour advantage

Emphasising on the importance of timely medical intervention, Dr. Patil said patients brought to the hospital within the “golden hour” after a cardiac event have a much higher chance of survival.

Ruling out lapses in patient care, the Minister said he had personally assessed the situation and found no evidence of negligence. He added that the government is in the process of recruiting additional doctors for all three Jayadeva units and that the appointments are expected to be completed within the next two months.

Dr. Patil also revealed that the government is considering decentralising the administration of the Mysuru and Kalaburagi units. Under the proposed arrangement, the centres would be granted greater autonomy in appointments and decision-making based on local requirements, while reducing their dependence on the Jayadeva Bengaluru unit.

Describing Jayadeva hospital as a pioneer in cardiac care, the Minister said it had emerged as a model institution for the country. “Jayadeva is a tertiary-care hospital and the mortality rate remains below the national average,” he replied.

Expressing concern over reports that could weaken public confidence, Dr. Patil said unwarranted speculation might create anxiety among patients and their families. “If people lose faith in institutions like Jayadeva, it will only benefit private hospitals. Poor patients cannot afford treatment costs,” he added.

K. Harish Gowda, MLA, institute director B. Dinesh, and medical superintendent K.S. Sadananda were present with the Minister, who went around the hospital, spoke to the patients, their attendants, and the staff.