Curing Medicine – On new rules by the National Medical Commission

Source– The post is based on the article “Curing Medicine” published in “The Times of India” on 14th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Issues related to development and management of health

Relevance: Issues related to regulation of healthcare sector

News– The National Medical Commission’s new rules on registered medical practitioners have tackled doctors’ irresponsible use of social media for the first time.

What are the new rules by the National Medical Commission on registered medical practitioners?

On Twitter, doctors share detailed accounts of their patients’ conditions, treatments, and results. However, this practice has been prohibited.

NMC has introduced a requirement for ongoing “continuous professional development” throughout a doctor’s career.

Conferences or workshops eligible for CPD cannot receive sponsorship from pharmaceutical companies.

New regulations reiterate that doctors must prescribe generic medicines.

What are issues with the implementation of these rules?

The Indian government needs to confront the concerns related to generic medications available in the public market. In situations where a recommended generic drug is unavailable, the substitution is frequently proposed by the pharmacist.

The Jan Aushadhi stores under the government’s supervision often have inadequate supplies. Therefore, the success of the regulations introduced will depend on the formulation of appropriate penalties.

Pharmaceutical firms and diagnostic chains have nurtured a strong connection with hospitals and medical professionals.

Historically, pharmaceutical companies have been instrumental in supporting the professional growth of doctors. As these companies withdraw their financial support for workshops, there are questions regarding fulfilment of this role by someone else.

The success of overseeing medical engagements on Twitter by regulatory bodies is still something that needs to be witnessed.