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ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council has issued a public notice urging verification of practitioner credentials amid rising concerns over unregistered medical practice.
The PMDC issued a public notice warning the public about unverified medical practitioners and misleading credentials circulating nationwide. The notice, published on its official website, urged patients to confirm registration status before seeking treatment from doctors or dentists operating in clinics and hospitals.
The council said it had observed an increase in complaints regarding unauthorized individuals presenting themselves as qualified professionals. It added that such practices pose serious risks to patient safety and undermine the credibility of licensed practitioners. The notice emphasized that only individuals registered with the council are legally permitted to practice medicine or dentistry in Pakistan.
According to the council’s latest available data, more than 300,000 medical and dental practitioners are registered across the country, reflecting steady growth in the healthcare workforce over the past decade. However, health experts have repeatedly warned about gaps in enforcement and oversight, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas where access to qualified professionals remains limited.
The public notice also outlined steps for verification, directing citizens to consult the council’s online registry. It advised patients to check license numbers and credentials before undergoing medical procedures. The council said strict action would be taken against those found violating registration laws, including legal proceedings and closure of clinics.
Pakistan’s healthcare sector has faced persistent regulatory challenges, with multiple reforms introduced in recent years to improve governance. The council itself underwent restructuring under new legislation aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability. Analysts say enforcement remains uneven despite these changes.
According to the World Health Organization’s 2024 country profile, Pakistan continues to face a shortage of healthcare workers relative to its population size, with doctor-to-patient ratios below recommended global standards. This shortage has contributed to the proliferation of unlicensed practitioners, especially in underserved regions.
The council’s warning comes amid broader efforts by authorities to curb malpractice and improve healthcare quality. Provincial health departments have also launched inspection drives targeting illegal clinics, while professional bodies have called for stricter penalties against violators.
Officials said public awareness remains a key factor in addressing the issue. They urged citizens to report suspicious practices and avoid seeking treatment from individuals lacking verifiable credentials. Medical associations have welcomed the move, saying it reinforces the importance of professional regulation in protecting patient welfare.
The notice also highlighted ethical obligations of registered practitioners, urging them to display valid licenses prominently at their workplaces. It warned that failure to comply with regulatory requirements could result in disciplinary action, including suspension or cancellation of registration.
Healthcare analysts note that digital verification systems have improved transparency but require wider public adoption. They argue that consistent enforcement, combined with education campaigns, is essential to reducing the presence of unqualified practitioners.
The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council said it would continue monitoring the situation and take necessary steps to ensure compliance with regulations. It added that safeguarding public health remains its primary responsibility as the country works to strengthen its healthcare system.
