Advertising Regulations For Physicians By MCI

India is an Emerging and Developing Country (EDC) and is one of the world's fastest-growing economies. As a developing nation, India has high expectations for its healthcare industry and for medical tourism.

The government does support its growing private healthcare sector. But the MCI (Medical Council of India) also maintains regulations barring physician and hospital advertising that are antiquated and anti-business when taken at face value.

Doctors cannot print their photographs on letterheads and use elaborate signboards. Advertising is not allowed under the code of medical ethics of the MCI.

Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002 for Advertising

Rule 6.1 under Chapter 6 explains about the Unethical Acts:

A physician shall not aid or abet or commit any of the following acts, which shall be interpreted as unethical:

• Soliciting patients directly or indirectly by a physician, a group of physicians, institutions, or organizations is considered unethical
• A physician shall not make use of his/her name as the subject of any form or manner of advertising or publicity through any mode either alone or in conjunction with others which can invite attention to him or his professional title, skill, qualification, achievements, attainments, specialties, appointments, associations, affiliations, or…