“Strict accountability is here — doctors must write prescriptions by generic names,” says the union Health minister.
In a bold move towards affordable and ethical healthcare, the Union Health minister has officially declared that the National Medical Commission (NMC) and State Medical Councils are now empowered to take strict action against doctors who violate the mandate of prescribing generic medicines.
This announcement isn’t just policy—it’s a wake-up call for the entire medical fraternity.
🚨 What’s the New Rule?
Doctors must:
✅ Prescribe generic drugs only, not branded ones
✅ Clearly write prescriptions using legible, capital letters
✅ Follow updated ethics and regulations under NMC guidelines
Failing to comply will now lead to disciplinary actions, which may include suspension, warnings, or cancellation of medical licenses.
🔎 Why This Matters
💰 Affordable Care: Generic medicines cost up to 80% less than branded alternatives
⚖️ Patient Rights: Ensures patients get affordable, quality treatment without brand manipulation
🔍 Transparency: Breaks pharma-doctor nexus influencing prescription choices
This move aligns with India’s vision to promote rational drug use and eliminate unnecessary financial burdens on patients.
📜 NMC’s Ethical Guidelines: What Doctors Must Follow
The NMC’s revised Registered Medical Practitioner (Professional Conduct) Regulations, 2023 mandate:
✅ Use generic drug names in all prescriptions
✅ No promotion or favouring of any pharmaceutical brand
✅ No gifts, incentives or sponsorships from pharma companies
✅ All prescriptions to be in CAPITAL LETTERS for clarity
Violation of these guidelines is now punishable under the Medical Council’s disciplinary framework.
🧠 Health Minister’s Stand
> “NMC and State Medical Councils are now empowered to ensure compliance. If any doctor fails to follow the generic prescription rule, appropriate action will be taken.”
This move sends a strong message: professional ethics can no longer be optional.
🏥 How This Impacts Doctors and Patients
For Doctors:
✅Need to adapt immediately to the new regulations
✅Maintain full transparency in prescription practices
✅Risk losing license for repeated violations
For Patients:
✅Expect lower medical bills
✅Access to equally effective alternatives to costly branded drugs
More trust in medical guidance
📣 Final Word
India is taking a bold step to reform prescription practices—putting patients first. With the NMC and State Medical Councils now fully authorized, the medical community is under the spotlight.
Doctors must now choose: compliance or consequences.