HRDA Seeks Statewide Task Force Against Quacks
HRDA said many persons operating as RMPs or quacks practise modern medicine without recognised degrees or valid registration, prescribing medicines or administering injections and IV fluids, putting patients at risk.
Hyderabad:Recent deaths reported from Khammam, Mahbubabad, Jangaon and Hyderabad following treatment or injections allegedly provided by persons posing as rural medical practitioners (RMPs), quacks or Grameena Vaidhyulu have highlighted the need for stronger action against unauthorised medical practice, the Healthcare Reforms Doctors Association (HRDA) said.
The association welcomed the Hyderabad Task Force and police action against 11 persons allegedly posing as doctors, but said the arrests were only the tip of the iceberg given the widespread presence of unqualified practitioners across Telangana.
HRDA said many persons operating as RMPs or quacks practise modern medicine without recognised degrees or valid registration, prescribing medicines or administering injections and IV fluids, putting patients at risk.
Calling for coordinated statewide action, HRDA urged the government to establish a dedicated task force on the lines of HYDRAA, EAGLE and HFAST to identify and act against persons practising medicine without legal authority.
The proposed task force should include the Telangana Medical Council (TGMC), District Medical and Health Officers (DMHOs), Drugs Control Administration (DCA) and Police Department, with defined responsibilities for surveillance, inspections, enforcement and prosecution.
HRDA said the task force should map suspected quacks and unauthorised clinics, conduct joint inspections, seize illegally stocked medicines and equipment, shut establishments and initiate prosecution under relevant laws.