DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 17 (MExN): The Nagaland Medical Council (NMC) has urged its members, practicing both in private and government service, to continue to maintain the highest level of ethical practice.
“The principal objective of the medical profession is to render service to humanity with full respect for the dignity of profession and man. The honored ideals of the medical profession imply that the responsibility of the physician extend not only to individuals but also to society (MCI-Code of Medical Ethics),” a press release from the NMC stated.
It meanwhile appreciated the Nagaland State Government for clearly defining ‘private practice' and in 2011 offering In-Service Doctors, a onetime option to opt for Non Practicing Allowance (NPA). “Therefore, for In-Service Doctors, availing NPA and indulging in private practice, is unethical, as it violates Government rules,” the NMC stated.
The council further reminded private hospitals that, under the 'Health Establishment Act 1997', they cannot employ In-Service Doctors in private hospitals.
“However, non-compliance of these rules should not be construed as criminal act but to be seen as violation of Government rules. Therefore, to avoid attracting punitive action from the Government, and to uphold ethical practice, it is the responsibility of each individual,” the NMC said.
“To honour the ideals of the medical profession and to gain confidence of the society, it is the bounden duty of every doctor to uphold the highest ethical practice in their profession,” it added.
