Lokmat News Network
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:
A decision has been taken to directly appoint all members of the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) by the government, raising concerns in the medical community. The Council is a protector of patients' interests; if it is weakened, disciplinary action could be delayed and the direct participation of doctors will end. The question being raised is: how much of a voice will doctors have in their decisions?
Elected representatives and nominated members currently maintain a balance, keeping the Council connected to ground realities — from small rural clinics to large hospitals. Doctors feel it is their own institution, but the proposed change strikes at this very sentiment.
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Council oversees code of conduct for doctors
The Medical Council is not merely a registration body. It oversees the code of conduct for doctors, investigates patient complaints, takes action on improper treatments, and monitors medical education standards. Its independent role is crucial in carrying out these responsibilities. If autonomy is reduced, impartiality could be affected, doctors warned.
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Voice of Doctors is backbone of system
The voice of doctors is the backbone of this system and must be preserved. A strong healthcare system is built on dialogue, trust, and cooperation between the government and the medical community. A proper coordination between elections and appointments can be achieved, and reforms can be made while keeping doctor participation intact. If autonomy, accountability, and participation are all preserved, Maharashtra's healthcare system can become more capable, transparent, and trustworthy, the common goal of every doctor and every patient.
(Dr Anupam Takalkar, State Joint Secretary, IMA)
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Only members aligned with Govt views
The Council's elections are scheduled shortly, meaning elected members would serve one year instead of five. The government should have retained elected members for five years and consulted them before deciding. Appointments must be through elections only; otherwise, only those aligned with the government's thinking will get selected.
(Dr Vikas Deshmukh, President, IMA, Chh. Sambhajinagar Branch)