Hyderabad: Telangana Targets Quacks Posing as Medical Professionals
Hyderabad: In a significant move to protect public health and tackle the growing issue of quackery, the Telangana State Medical Council (TSMC) has filed 400 FIRs over the past year against individuals practicing as Rural Medical Practitioners (RMPs) without an MBBS degree. Additionally, notices have been issued to 40 doctors suspected of aiding these illegal practitioners.
Efforts to Curb Quackery
The TSMC’s crackdown targets individuals who practice allopathy under the guise of RMPs, despite lacking the necessary medical qualifications. This initiative comes in response to the rising number of unqualified practitioners operating in rural areas, potentially endangering public health.
The current office-bearers of the TSMC have launched a robust effort, with the support of the Telangana State Drug Control Administration (TSDCA), to legally challenge individuals practicing allopathy without an MBBS degree.
Reforms to Support Registered Doctors
Alongside the crackdown on quackery, the TSMC has introduced reforms aimed at benefiting registered medical professionals in the state:
- Fee Reduction: Registration and renewal fees for doctors have been reduced by 50%.
- Exemption for Senior Doctors: Doctors above the age of 65 are exempt from paying renewal fees.
- Online Services: The Council has streamlined administrative procedures by offering online renewals and issuing good-standing certificates digitally, reducing the need for doctors to visit the office.
Collaboration with NMC and Workshops
In collaboration with the National Medical Commission (NMC), the TSMC has conducted workshops and training sessions focused on handling misconduct and appeal cases. These sessions, held in Hyderabad, were attended by professors from various government medical colleges in the state.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Programs
The TSMC has also granted accreditation to six scientific doctor associations, including IMA Warangal, API, and ISA, to conduct Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs in district areas. These programs, following NMC guidelines, offer doctors opportunities to earn credits towards their professional development.
Dr. G Srinivas on Council’s Progress
Vice-chairman of the TSMC, Dr. G Srinivas, highlighted the positive changes in the council’s functioning: “Earlier, doctors had to wait in long queues at the Council office. Now, everything is online, saving valuable time for doctors,” he noted.
Key Takeaways
- Crackdown on Quackery: 400 FIRs filed against unqualified practitioners.
- Doctor-Friendly Reforms: Fee reductions and online services introduced.
- Collaboration for Professional Development: Accreditation for CPD programs and NMC workshops.
The TSMC’s efforts reflect a comprehensive approach to enhancing the medical profession’s standards while ensuring public safety through a crackdown on quackery.
