Hyderabad: The Telangana State Medical Council (TGMC) has issued notices to 40 doctors across the state for collaborating with unqualified practitioners, commonly known as quacks. Some of these doctors were allegedly offering commissions to quacks for referring complex cases to them.
This referral system highlights the deep-rooted network of unqualified practitioners, particularly in rural areas where their influence is significant.
“Many doctors and hospitals in these regions rely on quacks for patient referrals, as people often consult unqualified practitioners first and only approach qualified doctors when their condition worsens,” said Dr. G. Srinivas, Chairman of TGMC. In some areas, qualified doctors feel dependent on these quacks to sustain their practice.
A recent raid in Gajwel uncovered a diagnostic center performing MRI and CT scans based on prescriptions from quacks, exposing the extent of their involvement in healthcare services.
“We are taking strict action against doctors who encourage such unethical practices by paying referral fees to quacks. This violates the Medical Council of India’s Professional Conduct, Etiquette, and Ethical Rules, 2002,” Dr. Srinivas added.
The rules explicitly prohibit doctors from giving, soliciting, or receiving any gift, commission, or reward for referring or recommending a patient for medical treatment.
The TGMC’s action is part of an effort to curb unethical practices and protect public health by addressing the nexus between qualified doctors and unqualified practitioners.
