National Medical Commission Overview

Questions and Answers

What constitutes infamous conduct in a medical professional context?

Providing free consultations to patients

Writing medical journals

Participating in community health fairs

Receiving or giving commissions for referrals (correct)

Which of the following is NOT a privilege of a registered medical practitioner?

The right to issue medical certificates

The right to practice medicine

The right to run a pharmacy (correct)

The right to choose their patients

Which of the following is one of the '6 A's' related to medical ethics?

Assurance

Advocacy

Abortion (correct)

Accountability

What does the Red Cross emblem signify?

The insignia of military medical services Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Red Crescent emblem?

To represent humanitarian efforts in certain regions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes an aspect of professional ethics concerning addiction?

Addiction is one of the '6 A's' that denotes unethical behavior Signup and view all the answers

What is the first pledge in the Declaration of Geneva?

The health of my patient will be my first consideration. Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition can the Medical Council remove a practitioner's name from the register?

If found guilty of serious professional misconduct. Signup and view all the answers

What initiates the council proceedings against a medical practitioner?

A registered medical practitioner is convicted of a cognizable offense. Signup and view all the answers

What happens if a prima facie case is not made out during a complaint review?

The complainant is informed accordingly. Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of the deletion of a practitioner's name from the register?

It is published in local press and medical publications. Signup and view all the answers

What is the requirement for a practitioner to attend a hearing before the council?

A notice specifying the nature and particulars of the charge. Signup and view all the answers

In what manner does the Council conduct its enquiries on misconduct?

As judicial proceedings under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908. Signup and view all the answers

What roles do the Executive Committee and Subcommittee play in the complaint process?

They investigate and cause further inquiry. Signup and view all the answers

What promise is made about the respect for human life in the Declaration of Geneva?

I will maintain the utmost respect for human life. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the factors that cannot intervene between the practitioner's duty and the patient?

Political affiliation of the patient. Signup and view all the answers

What year was the National Medical Commission established?

2019 Signup and view all the answers

How many total members comprise the National Medical Commission?

33 Signup and view all the answers

Which role is NOT part of the NMC's composition?

Community health workers Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a power or function of the NMC?

Frame guidelines for fees and charges Signup and view all the answers

Which body replaced the Medical Council of India?

National Medical Commission Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the NMC's responsibilities regarding healthcare?

Assess human resource requirements for healthcare Signup and view all the answers

Who appoints all members of the NMC under the NMC Act?

Central Government Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant composition feature of the NMC Act that is absent in the IMC Act?

A seven-member Search Committee Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the Under-Graduate Medical Education Board?

To develop curriculum for undergraduate medical education Signup and view all the answers

Which board is responsible for granting recognition to medical qualifications at the postgraduate level?

Post-Graduate Medical Education Board Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding the State Medical Councils?

They consist of members elected by registered medical practitioners. Signup and view all the answers

What unique feature is incorporated in the NMC Act regarding examinations?

Mandatory exit exams for all candidates Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of the Ethics and Medical Registration Board?

Facilitating international faculty exchange programmes Signup and view all the answers

What is the main responsibility of the Medical Assessment and Rating Board?

Granting permission to establish new medical institutions Signup and view all the answers

How are the presidents of the State Medical Councils chosen?

Elected from among the registered medical practitioners Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true about the composition of Autonomous Boards under the NMC Act?

Each board consists of a President, two whole-time members, and two part-time members Signup and view all the answers

What duty is established when a doctor provides advice over the telephone?

Duty to Exercise a Reasonable Degree of Skill and Knowledge Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition can a practitioner withdraw from a patient's care?

Only with the patient's consent Signup and view all the answers

What is a physician's duty with regard to the use of prescribed drugs?

To warn the patient and relevant third parties Signup and view all the answers

What is the implication if a doctor fails to warn a patient about drug dangers?

Liability for the patient’s injuries and third-party harm Signup and view all the answers

What must a doctor provide when they have their own dispensary?

Suitable medicines directly Signup and view all the answers

When are doctors held accountable for the prescriptions they provide?

If it causes temporary or permanent harm Signup and view all the answers

What should a practitioner ensure when attending to children?

Special care is taken for injuries Signup and view all the answers

Which situation does not permit a doctor to withdraw from care?

The patient complements the doctor Signup and view all the answers

Regarding which circumstance does a doctor have a duty to inform third parties?

Infectious diseases Signup and view all the answers

Which duty involves providing precise timing and quantities for medicines?

Duty to Give Instructions Signup and view all the answers

What is essential for informed consent before an operation?

The surgeon must explain the nature and extent of the operation. Signup and view all the answers

What happens if a surgeon delegates their duty to operate to another?

The surgeon may be held liable for negligence. Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition should a consultation with a specialist be pursued?

When an operation poses a danger to life. Signup and view all the answers

What must be avoided during surgery to ensure patient safety?

Failing to check all instruments before closure. Signup and view all the answers

How should a referring physician handle a transfer of care to another physician?

By transferring all patient information to the consultant. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of poor communication before a procedure?

Informed consent may not be valid. Signup and view all the answers

What principle guides treatment according to the Geneva Conventions?

Treating individuals without any adverse distinction. Signup and view all the answers

Which situation necessitates informing the patient about the type of consultation?

When the patient is being transferred to another physician. Signup and view all the answers

What is implied by a doctor's duty of care when agreeing to provide medical advice?

They possess essential skills and knowledge. Signup and view all the answers

What determines the degree of competence expected from a doctor?

The status and training level of the doctor. Signup and view all the answers

What is the standard of care required from medical practitioners?

A reasonable degree of skill and care specific to circumstances. Signup and view all the answers

What happens if a general practitioner treats a case that requires specialized knowledge?

They must adhere to specialist standards. Signup and view all the answers

When assessing the practice of a doctor, what knowledge is considered?

Knowledge available at the time of the incident. Signup and view all the answers

What is expected of a doctor in cases of negligence?

To avoid becoming negligent during standard treatments. Signup and view all the answers

What liability does a doctor have when examining a patient for third-party purposes?

They owe no duty other than to avoid causing injury. Signup and view all the answers

In what scenario would a charge of negligence fail related to medical equipment?

When the equipment's availability is considered. Signup and view all the answers

How should doctors handle inherent risks in medical treatment?

They should inform patients of all potential risks. Signup and view all the answers

What degree of skill is expected from a specialist compared to a general practitioner?

Higher standards of skill and knowledge are required. Signup and view all the answers

What defines professional negligence in a medical context?

The absence of reasonable care and skill by a medical practitioner. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a type of negligence mentioned?

Negligent Interference Signup and view all the answers

In which situation is a doctor not obliged to share examination findings with the patient directly?

During a referral for an impartial medical examination. Signup and view all the answers

What is required to establish the burden of proof in a negligence claim?

Proof of all four elements of negligence. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'due care' refer to in the context of medical treatment?

The reasonable care and attention required for patient safety. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes 'direct causation' in a negligence claim?

The physician's action causing injury without any intervening cause. Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes the improper deviation from accepted medical practices?

Breach of standard of care. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a condition for liability in negligence?

Existence of a duty of care by the physician. Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'but for' test used for in establishing negligence?

To assess causation regarding the physician's duty. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done in all cases of accident regarding X-ray examination?

All accidents must be X-rayed. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an obligation of a doctor concerning patient information?

Keep all patient information confidential. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence if a doctor discloses a patient's information without consent?

Patients can sue for damages due to mental suffering. Signup and view all the answers

In what situation should a doctor not disclose illness details to relatives?

When the patient is major and withholding consent. Signup and view all the answers

What must a doctor do before reporting a case in a medical journal?

Maintain secrecy to ensure the patient's identity is not revealed. Signup and view all the answers

What action should a doctor take if examining a Government servant on behalf of the Government?

Keep the nature of the illness confidential. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not an acceptable reason for a doctor to share patient information?

To provide updates to immediate family members without consent. Signup and view all the answers

Which circumstance allows a doctor to discuss a patient's illness?

Under a subpoena from a court of law. Signup and view all the answers

What should a doctor do if a domestic servant is examined at the request of the master?

Obtain consent from the servant before disclosing details. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the doctor-patient relationship is false?

A doctor can disclose patient information to manufacturers for research. Signup and view all the answers

What is a physician legally required to do if they know about a crime committed by a patient?

Report it to the nearest Magistrate or police officer Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a right of patients?

Right to impose treatment on others Signup and view all the answers

In emergency cases, what is the primary obligation of a physician?

Provide necessary medical aid to save the patient’s life Signup and view all the answers

What should patients do regarding their medical information?

Furnish complete information about their medical history Signup and view all the answers

When can a doctor refuse to treat a patient?

Beyond their professional working hours Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following reflects a patient’s right to confidentiality?

All patient information should be kept private Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence for a doctor who fails to report a known crime?

Imprisonment for up to six months Signup and view all the answers

What does the patient have the right to refuse?

Specific medical treatment Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a privilege of the patient regarding their health care?

Right to choose their own doctor Signup and view all the answers

What must a physician do if a patient is at risk for suicide?

Report it only if the patient has attempted it Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

National Medical Commission (NMC)

Established under the National Medical Commission Act, 2019.
Replaced the Medical Council of India (MCI) in 2020.
Acts as the apex regulator of medical education and profession in India.

Composition

Composed of 33 members:
- 1 chairman
- 10 ex-officio members
- 22 part-time members nominated by States and Union Territories.
Chairperson, secretary, and some members appointed by the Central Government.

Powers/Functions

Develops policies for medical practitioners ensuring care and ethical standards.
Assesses healthcare needs and infrastructure requirements.
Frames guidelines for fee determination.
Grants limited licenses for mid-level medical practice.

Differences between NMC Act and MCI Act

Governing body under NMC is the NMC; under MCI, it is the MCL.
All NMC members appointed/nominated by Central Government vs. elected members in MCI from medical faculty.
NMC has a seven-member Search Committee composition; MCI has no such provision.
NMC comprises Autonomous Boards; MCI does not.
Exit exams for all candidates mandated by NMC; only FMGE candidates under MCI.

Autonomous Boards Functions

Under-Graduate Medical Education Board:
- Grants recognition to undergraduate medical qualifications.
- Develops competency-based curricula and sets standards for institutions.
Post-Graduate Medical Education Board:
- Grants recognition to postgraduate and super-specialty qualifications.
- Similar responsibilities to the undergraduate board.
Medical Assessment and Rating Board:
- Permissions for new institutions and course openings; conducts inspections.
Ethics and Medical Registration Board:
- Maintains National Registers; regulates professional conduct and medical ethics.

State Medical Councils

Autonomous bodies under State Medical Council Act.
Comprise elected and nominated members; president and vice-president are elected by members.
Maintain medical registers for practitioners.

Forensic Medicine and Professional Ethics

Declaration of Geneva: A pledge by medical practitioners to prioritize patient care and adhere to ethical standards.
Medical Councils enforce disciplinary actions against professional misconduct.
Medical practitioners must maintain confidentiality and adhere to professional secrecy.

Duties of Medical Practitioners

Obligation to exercise reasonable skill and care; arises on patient examination.
Must provide comprehensive instructions regarding medication and follow-up care.
Must warn patients about potential risks associated with prescribed treatments.

Legal and Ethical Issues

Key issues include informed consent, patient autonomy, and communication failures.
Rights and duties regarding patient care and consultations must be maintained.

Roles in Consultation and Duty to Third Parties

Consult specialists in emergencies or complex cases.
Duty to inform third parties in cases of infectious diseases.

Professional Secrecy

Physicians must maintain confidentiality regarding patient information.
Disclosure of patient details without consent can result in legal repercussions.

Erasure from the Medical Register

Publication of name deletions must occur in local press and medical association publications.

Infamous Conduct

Defined as unprofessional behavior that undermines the integrity of the medical profession.
Practices such as accepting commissions are considered serious misconduct.

Summary of Rights for Registered Medical Practitioners

The right to practice, choose patients, dispense medications, and recover fees.
Entitled to professional titles and positions in hospitals.

Red Cross Emblem

Signifies medical services in armed forces and protects medical personnel during conflicts.
Also recognized in humanitarian operations, with the Red Crescent emblem for Islamic countries.### Medical Law and Ethics
Undertrial prisoners in police custody have the right to keep their medical information confidential.
Doctors must maintain patient identity confidentiality when publishing case notes or photographs in medical journals.
Disclosure of sensitive findings from a deceased person's examination may harm their reputation or cause distress to relatives; thus, doctors should keep this information confidential.
Patients undergoing medical examinations for life insurance have the right to keep their medical information from insurance companies.

Physician's Responsibilities

Doctors can share medical information with clients and discuss cases with colleagues or paramedical staff.
Physicians must report serious crimes, including murder and dacoity, to the nearest Magistrate or police officer, with a penalty of up to six months imprisonment for failing to do so.
Reporting of suicide attempts is not mandatory, but deaths from such attempts must be reported to authorities.
In emergencies, doctors are obliged to provide necessary care to save patients’ lives.

Patient Duties

Patients should provide comprehensive information about their past and current health conditions.
Adherence to medical advice regarding treatments, diet, and lifestyle is expected from patients.
Patients are required to pay reasonable fees for medical services.

Patient Rights and Privileges

Patients can freely choose their healthcare providers.
Access to healthcare services is guaranteed regardless of demographic factors such as age, gender, or economic status.
Patients have the right to respectful treatment and confidentiality during health consultations.
Patients should receive complete information regarding their medical conditions, treatment options, and safety of procedures.
Rights include the ability to refuse any treatment, seek second opinions, and access medical records.
Continuous care and comfort during treatment are part of patient rights, alongside the right to file complaints and seek compensation for negligence.

Types of Physician-Patient Relationships

Therapeutic Relationship: Doctors may choose to treat or refuse patients depending on professional obligations; they cannot refuse treatment in emergencies.
Formal Relationship: Occurs in scenarios where third parties refer patients for impartial evaluations, including medicolegal cases and insurance assessments.

Medical Negligence

Defined as the absence of reasonable care by a medical practitioner, which can lead to injury or death.
Negligence encompasses both actions taken and a failure to act when required.
Due Care: Requires a physician to provide reasonable care based on the patient's mental and physical condition.
Breach of the standard of care can occur through either improper treatments or unskilled applications of accepted practices.

Types of Negligence

Civil, criminal, corporate, and contributory negligence.

Civil Negligence

Arises in cases where a patient or their relatives sue for damages due to medical negligence or where a physician seeks payment for services against allegations of negligence.

Elements of Negligence

Duty: A duty of care is established.
Dereliction: Failure to meet the standard of care expected from prudent physicians.
Direct Causation: A causal link between the negligent act and the harm caused.
Damage: The resulting harm must be foreseeable.

Burden of Proof

Patients must demonstrate all elements of negligence by preponderance of evidence.
"But for" test determines if the injury would have occurred without the doctor's breach of duty.

Duty of Care

Physicians imply skill and knowledge when providing treatment, including the duty to decide on treatment plans and administer them adequately.
Competence varies by the physician's level of training and experience, not requiring specialists' skills from general practitioners.

Standard of Care

The standard requires a reasonable degree of skill and care, which varies by context and experience level.
Doctors in different settings are judged against the standard typical for their specific practice environment.

Liability for Third-Party Injury

No physician-patient relationship is formed during examinations requested by third parties for non-therapeutic purposes, limiting the physician's duty to prevent injury only.

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Description

Explore the structure and functions of the National Medical Commission (NMC) established in 2019. This quiz covers its composition, including the roles of its chairman, ex-officio members, and part-time members nominated by states and union territories.