Authorities to crackdown on doctors who issue 'fake' MCs

Health authorities have warned that medical doctors who issue medical certificates (MCS) in violation of set regulations will be dealt with.

President of medical regulatory body – Maldives Medical and Dental Council, Dr. Abdulla Afeef spoke to “Sun” this Tuesday and said that the feature article published on the online website last Monday, September 19, had brought the irregular practice to their attention.

He said that the council would keep a close eye on the practice, and penalize the doctors found guilty.

“We will take disciplinary action against doctors found to have such disciplinary issues,” said Afeef.

He said that disciplinary action against such doctors would include warnings not to repeat such actions, suspension of license and revocation of license.

Spokesperson for Ministry of Health, Thasleema Usmaan said that penalties would also be imposed against medical centers that condone such practices.

Thasleema said that an MC cannot be issued based solely on the request of the patient, but in accordance with certain regulations.

“A medical certificate cannot be issued just because someone comes and requests for one. The policy is that the doctor has to do his analysis and issue the certificate only if there is probably reason to,” said Thasleema.

She noted that some employers had been contacting the ministry to verify the validity of some medical certificates being submitted by their employees.

The sale of medical certificates by unscrupulous doctors is commonplace in Maldives.