Mumbai – The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a directive permitting registered homeopathic practitioners to prescribe allopathic medicines if they have completed a certified course in modern pharmacology.
Key Highlights of the Directive
- Eligibility for Prescriptions
- Homeopaths with a certified course in modern pharmacology recognized by the state government are authorized to prescribe allopathic medicines.
- Guidance for Chemists
- Retail and wholesale drug dealers in Maharashtra can sell allopathic medicines prescribed by qualified homeopathic practitioners.
- Legislative Background
- The directive stems from a 2016 amendment to the Maharashtra Medical Council Act, redefining “registered medical practitioners” to include homeopaths meeting the pharmacology course criteria.
Controversies and Reactions
- Support from Homeopaths
- The move has been welcomed by the Maharashtra Homeopathic Council and its Administrator, Dr. Bahubali Shah, as a step toward broadening their scope of practice.
- Opposition from Allopaths
- The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has expressed strong opposition, labeling the practice as “mixopathy” and raising concerns about patient safety.
- Dr. Santosh Kadam, President of IMA Maharashtra, indicated plans to pursue legal action against the directive, as a related case is already sub judice.
- Past Legal Developments
- In 2017, a notification allowed homeopaths with specific qualifications to register with the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) and practice modern medicine.
- This was met with significant resistance from allopathic practitioners, culminating in a stay order from the Bombay High Court on the notification.
Implications
The FDA directive raises questions about the evolving definitions of medical practice in India, particularly regarding the integration of homeopathy and allopathy. While it seeks to address gaps in healthcare access, it has ignited a broader debate on standards, training, and the sanctity of distinct medical systems.
Looking Ahead
With the IMA poised for further legal challenges, the directive’s future and its impact on Maharashtra’s healthcare system remain uncertain.
