Young Doctors Association (YDA) has announced to hold protests against the establishment of Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC) in Islamabad on October 14th.
YDA in a virtual meeting of all provincial branches on Saturday, ‘unanimously’ rejected the formation of PMC terming it an ‘illegal body’.
“The Pakistan Medical Commission is an unconstitutional, undemocratic and illegal body,” read the statement issued by YDA.
YDA has argued that the monopoly of licensing body will have negative impact on elected stakeholders and that its formation is in violation of international laws.
The association has announced to hold protest in Islamabad on October 14th next week.
Furthermore, YDA has also announced the formation of student committees at college level to preserve and propagate medical students and doctors’ interests.
In addition to it, The Pakistan Islamic Medical Association, the Pakistan Medical Association have also voiced their support against the formation of PMC, declaring it unconstitutional.
PMC Bill was approved by the parliament on September 16th, essentially replacing Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) with Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC).
Medical fraternity has overwhelmingly condemned and voiced their concerns against the establishment of PMC, contending that the step will degrade academic standards, turning medical institutions into ‘profit oriented’ businesses.
In addition to it, Sindh Health Department has also opposed the PMC terming it unfavorable for small provinces.
“Other than that, this bill will be a disaster for smaller provinces because it allows private medical colleges and universities to admit students irrespective of their domiciled province,” said Dr Azra Pechuho – Sindh Health Minister.
