Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Patterns Regarding Medico-Legal Affairs among Indian Ophthalmologists: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract

Background: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding medico-legal affairs among Indian ophthalmologists and identify areas requiring improvement to strengthen medico-legal preparedness in routine ophthalmic practice.

Methods: A prospective cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 160 ophthalmologists practicing in government and private healthcare institutions in Rajasthan and neighboring regions. A structured pre-validated questionnaire evaluated participants’ demographic characteristics and their knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding medico-legal issues, including informed consent, documentation, medical negligence, emergency care, medico-legal case (MLC) management, police notification, record keeping, professional liability, and communication following complications. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Categorical variables were summarized as frequencies and percentages.

Results: Among the 160 participants, junior residents constituted the largest group (43.8%), followed by consultants (37.5%). Most respondents were practicing in government hospitals (73.1%). Overall, participants demonstrated satisfactory medico-legal awareness. A majority correctly identified the need for police notification in grievous ocular injuries (82.5%), mandatory written informed consent before surgery (83.1%), maintenance of medico-legal records (81.9%), and preservation of OPD records (95.6%). Nearly all respondents supported transparent disclosure and communication with patients following complications (98.1%). However, important knowledge gaps were identified regarding eye donation in medico-legal cases, statutory limitation periods, liability associated with equipment failure, and the scope of legal protection provided by informed consent.

Conclusion: Indian ophthalmologists demonstrated generally satisfactory knowledge, positive attitudes, and appropriate medico-legal practices. Nevertheless, deficiencies in selected legal domains indicate the need for structured medico-legal education, regular continuing medical education programs, standardized institutional protocols, and enhanced legal awareness to reduce medico-legal risk and improve patient safety.