SRINAGAR: In a bid to enhance patient safety and uphold the integrity of medical practice in Jammu and Kashmir, the JK Medical Council has issued a series of directives to registered medical practitioners. These measures aim to eliminate unethical practices, curb quackery, and reinforce the professional standards outlined in the Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette, and Ethics) Regulations, 2002.
Highlighting the growing concerns over unqualified individuals impersonating doctors and violating patients’ rights, the Council emphasised the need for strict compliance with ethical guidelines. It called upon all registered doctors, whether in government or private practice, to ensure transparency by prominently displaying their credentials and registration numbers issued by the J&K Medical Council on all official documents, prescriptions, and certificates.
For doctors in government hospitals and health centres, it is now mandatory to include their signature, name, designation, and registration number on prescriptions, patient case records, investigation reports, and medical certificates. These details must also be accompanied by the date and time to ensure accountability in patient care.
Similarly, private practitioners, including those operating in nursing homes, clinics, infertility centres, rehabilitation facilities, and other healthcare establishments, are required to prominently display their names, recognised qualifications, and registration numbers on all prescriptions and documents provided to patients. The Council also encouraged the use of QR codes, now available on permanent registration certificates, to allow patients to verify their doctor’s credentials.
Additionally, all medical practitioners must display legally attested copies of their qualifications and registration certificates at their place of practice. They are authorised to practise only those specialities for which they have obtained the requisite qualifications and registration.
The J&K Medical Council has warned that failure to adhere to these regulations, including not displaying registration numbers or practising unauthorised specialities, will be treated as professional misconduct. Such violations could lead to disciplinary action under the Indian Medical Council regulations.
The Council’s president reiterated the body’s commitment to protecting patient rights and maintaining the highest standards of medical professionalism in Jammu and Kashmir. This initiative seeks to restore public trust in the medical fraternity while ensuring that healthcare services are delivered responsibly and ethically.
