The National Medical Commission (NMC) has introduced new guidelines allowing doctors to refuse treatment to patients who are violent or abusive. The rules, outlined in the NMC Registered Medical Practitioner (Professional Conduct) Regulations, 2023, ensure that medical professionals can work in a safe environment while maintaining ethical and professional standards.
Key Points of the New Regulation :
1. Doctors Have the Right to Be Paid (Section 6)
- Doctors must discuss their consultation and treatment fees with patients before providing medical care.
- If a patient refuses to pay, the doctor has the right to refuse treatment, except in emergencies or government hospital settings.
- Doctors must ensure that patients are not abandoned even if they refuse treatment.
2. Essential Medical Procedures Cannot Be Denied (Section 18)
- Certain procedures like sterilization, contraception, circumcision, or termination of pregnancy should not be refused if they are medically necessary.
- A doctor’s personal or religious beliefs cannot be a reason for refusal.
3. Doctors Can Choose Patients, Except in Emergencies (Section 26)
- A doctor can decide whom they will treat, but they must not refuse emergency cases.
- Once a doctor accepts a patient, they should provide proper care and must not abandon the patient without prior notice.
- If a patient needs a specialist, they should be referred to another doctor with proper consent.
4. Protection Against Abusive Behavior (Section 26)
- If a patient or their relatives are violent, abusive, or unruly, the doctor has the right to refuse treatment.
- In such cases, the incident must be properly documented and the patient should be referred to another healthcare provider.
What This Means for Doctors and Patients
These new rules aim to balance the rights of both doctors and patients. While doctors are expected to provide ethical and professional care, they also have the right to a safe working environment and fair payment for their services. The guidelines ensure that patients receive proper treatment, while also protecting doctors from violence or unfair demands.
With these updated regulations, the NMC hopes to strengthen trust in the healthcare system and promote mutual respect between doctors and patients.
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