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New Delhi – In a move that could have significant repercussions for medical ethics in India, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has launched an investigation into 30 doctors who participated in pharmaceutical company-sponsored foreign trips to Monaco and Paris. The trips, allegedly held under the pretext of attending the Aesthetics and Anti-Aging Medicine World Congress 2024, were reportedly funded by AbbVie Healthcare, the Indian subsidiary of an American drug major.
The Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) flagged the issue, citing violations of the Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP), which prohibits healthcare professionals (HCPs) from accepting foreign trips, gifts, or other inducements from pharmaceutical companies. AbbVie Healthcare reportedly spent Rs 1.91 crore to sponsor the excursions, raising questions about the ethical implications of such practices.
Potential Consequences for Doctors
The doctors under investigation may face suspension of their medical registration for periods ranging from three months to over a year, depending on the severity of their involvement. The Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette, and Ethics) Regulations of 2002 outline strict penalties for accepting gifts or hospitality from pharmaceutical companies.
According to the regulations:
- Expenses between Rs 1,000 and Rs 5,000 may result in censure.
- Expenses between Rs 5,000 and Rs 1 lakh could lead to suspension from the Indian Medical Register or State Medical Register for three months to a year.
- Expenses exceeding Rs 1 lakh could result in suspension for over a year.
A medical expert, speaking anonymously, noted, “The NMC has previously taken strict action in similar cases. Suspension of licenses for three to six months for professional misconduct is not uncommon.”
The NMC’s Role and Regulations
The NMC, formerly known as the Medical Council of India, is tasked with ensuring professional conduct among healthcare professionals. Its regulations prohibit medical practitioners from accepting travel facilities, paid vacations, or other hospitality from pharmaceutical companies under any pretext.
While the DoP has taken action against AbbVie Healthcare, including a reprimand, it has referred the matter to the NMC to investigate the alleged misconduct of the doctors involved. At the time of publication, both the NMC and DoP had not responded to queries.
Ethical and Professional Implications
The incident highlights the ongoing challenge of maintaining ethical boundaries in the healthcare sector. Such cases underscore the importance of adhering to guidelines to prevent undue influence from pharmaceutical companies on medical decision-making.
Disclaimer:
This report is based on available information and does not imply guilt or prejudge the outcome of the investigation.
