0
0
Hyderabad: The Telangana Junior Doctors Association (T-JUDA) has strongly opposed the demand to grant training certificates to unqualified Rural Medical Practitioners (RMPs) and Private Medical Practitioners (PMPs), calling it a grave threat to public health.
The controversy erupted after a video of Member of Legislative Council (MLC) M Kodandaram surfaced, in which he advocated for the formal recognition of RMPs and PMPs, arguing that they play a vital role in rural healthcare. His remarks came in response to protests by RMPs and PMPs at Indira Park in Hyderabad, where they demanded legitimacy and an end to government raids on their clinics.
Medical Community Raises Alarms
The proposal to legalise unqualified practitioners has drawn strong criticism from the medical community. According to T-JUDA, such a move would not only jeopardise public health but also undermine the rigorous education and training required to become a qualified doctor.
T-JUDA President Dr Kommu Rahul, speaking to EdexLive, warned about the dangers of allowing unqualified individuals to practice medicine.
“Our protest is against individuals who falsely claim to be medical professionals without proper certification. They lack knowledge of antibiotics, misuse them, and prescribe medicines without understanding proper dosages. This is both dangerous and illegal,” Dr Rahul asserted.
He further expressed concern that even well-educated individuals, including academicians, were supporting this demand. “If intellectuals back such dangerous practices, it raises serious questions about our healthcare priorities,” he added.
Telangana’s Healthcare Infrastructure
Dr Rahul also pointed out that Telangana’s healthcare system has significantly improved over the years, with every district now having a medical college and new hospitals established by the government. However, he acknowledged the challenges posed by systemic inequities, which drive some doctors to seek opportunities in urban areas.
T-JUDA accused unqualified practitioners of engaging in unethical practices, including running illegal clinics and receiving commissions for referring patients to private corporate hospitals.
“These individuals not only prescribe medicines without proper qualifications but also exploit vulnerable patients by taking commissions of up to 30% from private hospitals. This turns healthcare into a business transaction instead of a public service,” Dr Rahul stated.
Addressing Systemic Challenges
Beyond concerns over unqualified practitioners, T-JUDA also highlighted the significant salary disparities in the medical profession.
“A government doctor in Telangana earns about Rs 50,000 per month, while even a driver in Hyderabad earns between Rs 40,000 – Rs 45,000. Why would someone invest ten years in medical education for such low pay? This is why many doctors leave rural areas for urban centers,” Dr Rahul explained.
While acknowledging the government’s efforts in expanding healthcare infrastructure, he stressed the need for competitive salaries to encourage doctors to serve in rural areas.
Urging Government Action
The association has called on the government and medical authorities to take immediate steps to prevent unqualified individuals from practicing medicine, warning that legalising them could have catastrophic consequences for public health.
Disclaimer: This article is based on statements from medical professionals and does not intend to undermine any group. The information provided aims to highlight concerns regarding healthcare quality and patient safety. Readers are encouraged to refer to official government policies and medical regulations for accurate guidance.
