MMC introduces QR codes for 1.94 Lakh doctors to tackle fake practitioners
MMC introduces QR codes for 1.94 Lakh doctors to tackle fake practitioners
To ensure the legitimacy of doctors and combat the issue of fake practitioners, the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) will start issuing QR codes to all Registered Medical Practitioners (RMP) from next month. Currently, there are 1.94 lakh RMPs registered with the council. Officials mentioned that this QR code system will be rolled out before December in the state. Each RMP will receive a unique QR code that they must display in their clinics and hospitals, allowing patients to verify their credentials. This initiative aims to address concerns regarding unqualified practitioners and to help confirm the authenticity of doctors.
A doctor and a member of the MMC mentioned that patients can scan the QR code to confirm a doctor’s qualifications and valid registration when they seek consultation or treatment. He emphasized that this initiative will help reduce the prevalence of fake doctors in the state. Additionally, there will be a mobile app allowing citizens to check a doctor’s qualifications remotely by simply entering their names.
Similarly, another former MMC official noted that previously, the MMC had issued over 40,000 registration certificates with individual QR codes to prevent forgery. He suggested that it should be mandatory for all RMPs to display these QR codes. The MMC is taking various measures to combat the issue of fake doctors, and he urged other councils for alternative medicines to take proactive actions as well.
Dr. Rughwani also pointed out that while every district has had an anti-quackery committee for several years, there is a need for better enforcement of the rules. He highlighted that often complaints about quacks fail to reach the anti-quackery committee. He suggested that the committee should collaborate with credible associations like the IMA to effectively take action against these fraudulent practitioners.
