Medical Red Alert

During the General Body Meeting held on Wednesday under the chairmanship of Mayor Sharmila Pimpalkar, former Deputy Mayor Ramakant Madhavi made a serious allegation, stating that the number of fake doctors within the Thane Municipal Corporation limits has increased. Many people with degrees from other states operate clinics in Thane. He asserted that there is a serious risk to people since these doctors treat patients despite being illegitimate. Following this, the administration informed the house that ward-committee-wise squads would be appointed to inspect all clinics, and an action report would be presented to the house.

Rajesh More, a Shiv Sena corporator, questioned the IVF and sonography facilities together with the panel of honorary doctors. 

In response, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Prasad Patil provided detailed information regarding the honorarium paid to gynecologists, anesthesiologists, pediatricians, and radiologists. He further informed the house that there are currently 11 IVF centers in the TMC area, and 27 are awaiting approval.

Since March 2, 6 squads have been inspecting IVF centers, and till now, 10 squads have conducted surprise visits and inspections at 259 sonography centers in the municipal area.

Corporator Ramakant Madhavi stated that many hospitals in the Diva area have doctors practicing without a degree. In a surprising turn, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Prasad Patil informed the general body that the Clinical Establishment Act is not currently implemented in their jurisdiction. As a result, the doctors are not required to register with the Thane Municipal Corporation.

This statement led to an aggressive reaction from corporators, who accused the administration of “shielding” fake doctors.