The Government of India has established the Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) under the ambit of the National Medical Commission (NMC) Act, 2019. This new body has been entrusted with the responsibility of assessing and rating medical institutions, both government and private, to ascertain their compliance with the rigorous standards set forth by the National Medical Commission.
With an emphasis on maintaining professional conduct and ethics within the medical field, the Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette, and Ethics) Regulations 2002, issued under the Indian Medical Council Act 1956, outline the procedures for handling cases and complaints related to medical negligence. These matters are primarily addressed by the Directorate of Health and Family Welfare in the respective states or union territories, as well as the concerned State Medical Councils. In instances where either party finds the decision unsatisfactory, an avenue of appeal is available at the Ethics and Medical Registration Board, National Medical Commission.
To further bolster quality healthcare delivery and access, the National Council for Clinical Establishments has been established in accordance with the Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010 (CE Act, 2010). This body is tasked with the registration and regulation of clinical establishments, encompassing both government and private facilities affiliated with recognized systems of medicine. The overarching goal is to provide affordable and high-quality healthcare services to patients. The CE Act, 2010 mandates clinical establishments to meet a range of criteria, including minimum standards of facilities and services, personnel requirements, record maintenance, and compliance with Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs) issued by the Central and State Governments. Stringent measures are in place, including the possibility of registration cancellation for non-compliance.
This comprehensive regulatory framework has seen adoption in 12 states and 7 union territories, underscoring its growing importance in shaping the healthcare landscape. Additionally, patients who encounter deficiencies in medical services can seek recourse through the District, State, or National Consumer Dispute Redressal Forums under the Consumer Protection Act 1986 (Amended 2019).
