The National Medical Commission (NMC) has yet to take concrete action against doctors who partake in "junkets" or accept undue benefits from pharmaceutical companies and other commercial entities within the healthcare sector. Despite the establishment of regulations aimed at curbing such unethical practices, enforcement and demonstrable consequences remain a concern.
In August 2023, the NMC issued new regulations, titled "National Medical Commission Registered Medical Practitioner (Professional Conduct) Regulations 2023," which include strictures against registered medical practitioners (RMPs) and their families receiving gifts, cash, travel facilities, hospitality, or access to entertainment from pharmaceutical companies, medical device firms, commercial healthcare establishments, or their representatives. The intent is to prevent undue influence on medical decisions and maintain the independence of medical professionals. The regulations also extend to barring doctors from endorsing drug brands, medicines, or medical equipment. Furthermore, RMPs are prohibited from participating in third-party educational activities that receive direct or indirect sponsorship from pharmaceutical companies or related health sectors, to maintain the integrity of medical education.
These regulations replaced earlier guidelines issued by the Medical Council of India (MCI). In 2015, the MCI defined punishments for doctors accepting freebies based on the value of the gifts received. Penalties ranged from a censure for gifts worth up to Rs 5,000 to the removal of the doctor's name from the state or national medical register for a year or more for freebies valued above Rs 1 lakh.
While the regulations are in place, the critical aspect of implementation and tangible action appears to be lagging. It remains to be seen how the NMC will enforce these regulations and what mechanisms will be employed to identify and penalize doctors who violate the code of conduct. The lack of visible action raises concerns about the effectiveness of the regulations in curbing unethical practices.
Several factors may contribute to the delay in visible action. Establishing concrete evidence of doctors receiving undue benefits can be challenging. The NMC may be in the process of developing internal protocols and mechanisms for investigating potential violations and ensuring fair and transparent proceedings. Active enforcement may also require collaboration with other regulatory bodies and government agencies.
Despite the delay, the new regulations have generally been welcomed by the medical fraternity, with hopes that they will help put an end to unethical medical practices. Some doctors have expressed concern about potential impacts on patient care, reaffirming their commitment to treating patients regardless of the situation.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of the NMC's regulations will depend on consistent enforcement and demonstrable consequences for those who violate the ethical code. Until such actions are evident, concerns about the influence of commercial interests on medical practice will persist.
