Indian Medical Association Opposes Hybridization of Medical Education, Calls for Protection of Healthcare Standards
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has issued a stern warning against the emerging trend of ‘mixopathy,’ asserting that it poses a significant threat to patient care and safety. Dr. RV Asokan, national president of IMA, voiced strong opposition to the government’s push for hybridization of medical education, warning that such measures could compromise healthcare delivery systems.
“Mixopathy is a health catastrophe in waiting, and the integration of various systems of medicine poses a grave risk to patient well-being,” Dr. Asokan emphasized.
Addressing concerns during his visit to Pune for the inauguration ceremony of the new president of IMA Pune chapter, Dr. Asokan reaffirmed the organization’s stance against any attempts to dilute medical education standards.
“We have included the demand to halt the integration of different medical systems in our charter of demands,” he declared.
Dr. Rajan Sancheti and his team officially assumed leadership roles as the new president and office bearers of the IMA Pune chapter during the event, attended by several dignitaries, including Dr. Shivkumar Utture, national vice-president of IMA.
Dr. Asokan reiterated IMA’s unwavering commitment to upholding the integrity of medical education, asserting that the organization will vehemently oppose any moves towards the implementation of integrated MBBS courses.
“As the general elections conclude, the issue of integrated MBBS courses will become a priority. The adoption of integrative medicine jeopardizes patient care and safety. A ‘cafeteria approach,’ where patients have the autonomy to choose their preferred treatment, is the only acceptable solution,” he asserted.
With over 650 medical colleges nationwide and nearly a lakh MBBS graduates annually, Dr. Asokan emphasized the capability of doctors to meet healthcare needs effectively. He emphasized the need for strengthening existing healthcare infrastructure to enhance service delivery.
Meanwhile, Dr. Utture highlighted IMA’s initiative to present a health manifesto to candidates contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, aiming to raise awareness about healthcare challenges among future policymakers.
In addition to opposing mixopathy, IMA emphasized the urgent need for legislation to protect doctors and hospitals from violence. Dr. Asokan called for exemptions for small and medium-sized hospitals and clinics from regulatory burdens to ensure continued access to affordable healthcare services without compromising quality.
