Resident Doctors Threaten Strike Over Approval for Homeopaths

Quick summary

• The Maharashtra government has allowed homeopaths who have completed a one-year pharmacology course to prescribe modern medicines.
• The move has sparked backlash from the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD).
• IMA plans a one-day strike on Friday, affecting all medical services except emergencies, to protest this decision.
• MARD warned of statewide protests if the decision is not reversed within one to two weeks.
• In a letter to CM devendra Fadnavis, MARD expressed concerns over patient safety and called the government’s move “a betrayal of medical regulation principles.”
• A meeting between IMA representatives and CM Fadnavis took place Thursday but remained inconclusive as per press time.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The controversy reflects deeper tensions between conventional medicine systems like homeopathy and modern medical practices in India. The government’s decision appears aimed at addressing healthcare accessibility challenges but has raised concerns about safety standards tied to prescribing modern medicines without full MBBS qualifications. While widening access might benefit underserved regions, critics argue it risks undermining professional medical standards. This issue requires careful consideration by policymakers to ensure quality healthcare while balancing accessibility goals.

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