Gujarat Government to Debate Allowing Ayurveda Doctors to Practice Allopathy

Gandhinagar : The Gujarat Health Department will hold an important meeting on January 3. This is to  decide if Ayurveda-trained doctors can practice allopathy when needed. This proposal has sparked strong opposition from the Indian Medical Association (IMA). IMA believes it could harm patient safety and damage trust in the healthcare system.

The discussion began after an applicant from Ahmedabad asked the Health Department to allow Ayurveda doctors to practice allopathy in specific situations. In response, the Principal Secretary of the Health Department has called for a meeting to review the matter. The applicant has been asked to attend this important discussion.

IMA’s Concerns About the Proposal

The Indian Medical Association is firmly against letting Ayurveda doctors use allopathic treatments. In a letter to the Health Secretary, the IMA highlighted the risks. “Non-allopathy doctors should not be allowed to practice allopathy. If allowed, it could endanger the health and safety of Gujarat’s people. There have been many cases where untrained practitioners caused severe complications by prescribing allopathic medicines,” the letter stated.

The IMA also warned about broader issues. “Allowing unqualified practitioners could weaken the healthcare system. Wrong diagnoses and improper treatments could cause serious side effects, permanent harm, or even death. This could also destroy public trust in the medical system,” the association added.

Legal and Ethical Issues

The IMA referred to several rulings by the High Court and Supreme Court that ban unqualified individuals from practicing allopathy. These decisions aim to protect patients and uphold medical standards. The association stressed that letting Ayurveda practitioners treat patients with allopathy could set a harmful precedent.

Impact on Gujarat’s Healthcare

The decision from the January 3 meeting could significantly impact healthcare in Gujarat. Supporters of the proposal say it could help solve the shortage of allopathic doctors, especially in rural areas. However, critics argue that it might lower the quality and safety of medical care.

The Gujarat government faces a tough challenge. It needs to provide accessible healthcare while maintaining high standards. With strong arguments from both sides, the upcoming meeting could play a key role in shaping the state’s healthcare policies.