National Medical Council issues guidelines on professional responsibilities of students, teachers

Source: The post is based on the article “National Medical Council issues guidelines on professional responsibilities of students, teachers” published in The Hindu on 5th April 2023

What is the News?

The National Medical Council has for the first time issued a set of guidelines specifying the professional responsibilities of medical students, teachers and institutions. 

What is the purpose of these guidelines?

The guidelines have explained the code of conduct for teachers and students while studying /working, the relationship between a teacher and student, expectations from the two (personal attributes and conduct) and their collective responsibility to the community. 

What are the key features of the guidelines?

Responsibilities of a Medical Student: Medical students are expected to be diligent about their study and research work, be responsible for their personal growth and stay away from substance abuse while seeking help in case of addiction.

– The student should dress modestly, approach appropriate authorities for grievance redressal, and seek professional help in case they feel overwhelmed.

– They should freely interact with all their colleagues without discriminating against anyone.

– Students were also advised to work towards ensuring an ethical doctor-patient relationship and maintaining public trust in the health system. They were warned about the possible professional hazards associated with the indiscriminate use of social media.

Norms for Teachers: Education is a moral enterprise and teachers should ensure that students are competent, caring and empathetic and ethical in their practice.

– Teachers are role models and they should also follow boundaries with their students, even during interactions on social media.

– Medical institutions have been told not to give false information during inspections and accreditation processes, pressurize teachers to give false information and apply pressure on teachers to show preference for individual candidates.