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In a recent development, the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare has recommended that the National Medical Commission (NMC) embark on a comprehensive comparative study of best practices observed by its parallel organizations worldwide. Chaired by Shri Bhubaneswar Kalita, the panel asserted that such an initiative could elevate the NMC’s standards to global excellence.
The recommendation stems from the committee’s scrutiny of various governing bodies for medical education across nations like the USA, UK, and China. The panel’s examination concluded that the NMC currently aligns with international professional standards in medical education.
One of the key observations highlighted by the committee pertains to the global shortage of doctors, which remains a pervasive issue. Developed countries often mitigate this shortfall by attracting medical graduates from developing nations and simplifying the process for the practice of medicine by International Medical Graduates.
Addressing the context of standardized tests for medical education, the committee noted a growing trend of incorporating behavioral and social sciences to assess the ethics and integrity of medical aspirants in various countries.
The committee’s report includes a recommendation for the NMC to maintain a real-time national database of resident doctors, facilitating access for multiple stakeholders such as the ministry, states, medical colleges, and other concerned parties. This database is envisioned as a tool to address resource limitations in newly established institutions and foster experience and knowledge-sharing among resident doctors.
Moreover, the committee underscored the issue of dual registration of doctors with state medical councils, which complicates tracking. To streamline this process, the committee proposed the implementation of a unique registration number for doctors at the NMC level, leveraging the national database and promoting uniformity in registration practices.
Additionally, the committee urged the Ministry to develop a robust medical education system emphasizing evidence-based practices, critical thinking, and continuous learning to ensure healthcare practitioners remain updated with medical advancements. It emphasized that quality medical education not only meets current healthcare needs but also secures the future of healthcare by nurturing competent and compassionate professionals equipped with essential knowledge, skills, and ethical principles.
The importance of quality medical education was emphasized for its direct impact on the quality of healthcare services. The committee emphasized that high-quality medical education serves as the foundation for building proficient healthcare professionals capable of providing safe and effective care to patients.
With these recommendations, the Parliamentary Committee envisions a strengthened medical education framework that aligns with global standards, enhances healthcare delivery, and ensures the welfare of patients and practitioners alike.
