The National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued a public notice inviting comments from the public on live surgery broadcasts. This notice is dated January 23, 2024 and was published on January 25, 2024.
Background of Issue
A Writ Petition has been filed before the Supreme Court of India on the question of patient safety involved in live surgery broadcasts. In the matter of Rahil Chaudhary and ors. v/s Union of India & ors., Mr. Chaudhary, the Petitioner, has contended that private hospitals are commercially using patients for ulterior motives through these broadcasts in conferences.
He has also asserted that companies utilize these broadcasts to promote themselves and make enormous profits out of the misfortune of the patients. Thereby, the true purpose of these broadcasts gets eclipsed by advertising sponsorship and professional showmanship.
It was observed that broadcasts are simply a means for healthcare facilities to showcase their capabilities, for surgeons to flaunt their skills and companies to promote their products. The petitioner also avers that all of this is carried out at the expense of patient safety.
It is contended also that educational pre-recorded surgical videos can meet instructional objectives and involve far greater risks to patient safety.
Constitution of Committee of Experts
Hence, in the light of all of these arguments raised, the NMC has constituted a committee of experts to furnish recommendations on the issue of live surgeries by private hospitals.
In respect of this, all stakeholders and public at large are invited to provide their feedback on these matters. The last date for providing this feedback is February 2, 2024. This feedback will assist the committee to form a balanced and informed decision on the matter at hand.
