Govt move illegal: MMC

Dr Sangamnerkar says such a course would prove to be inadequate. 8220;Training in allopathy is a comprehensive approach towards illness and not just knowledge of a few drugs. The short course will produce only more quacks. Also, it will be an injustice to MBBS doctors who study for five years to get the degree.8221; The Ganeriwal Committee has come in for some flak for not having consulted any practising allopath or medical educationist. Other than Dr Sangamnerkar, a Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors MARD member, Director of Medical Education DMER Dr S K Ganeriwal was the only allopath on the committee.

Dr Suhas Pingale, secretary of the Indian Medical Association IMA, Bombay West Suburban branch, says: 8220;On February 11, 1997, we had submitted a letter protesting against non-inclusion of IMA in the committee. We submitted another letter to Dr Aher on October 15, but there have been no replies.8221; While the state government feels that by legalising prescription of allopathic drugs by non-allopaths it will be able to strengthen the rural health care network, MMC maintains there are other ways. 8220;In villages or taluka places, there is no need for an Ayurvedic or Homeopathic doctor to treat a patient beyond his/her capacity or purview of knowledge. The patient can be referred to the nearest allopathic doctor. And while dealing with an emergency, first aid can be given by any medical or paramedical personnel available,8221; says Dr Sangamnerkar. He warns if short training courses were introduced for BAMS and BHMS students, nurses and RMP doctors too would put in a claim for the same. 8220;Their demands will make more sense as they8217;ve already been trained in modern medicine,8221; he adds. The Ganeriwal Committee submitted its report in June, 1997. When contacted, the health minister said he would be studying the report soon.