The Supreme Court of India has issued a directive to the state and central governments to establish a regulatory body for the allied healthcare sector. This move comes in response to the rapid and largely unregulated growth of institutions offering courses in various allied and healthcare aspects of medical treatment. The court has set a two-month deadline for the formation of a national commission and state councils to oversee this sector.
The National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions Act, 2021, was introduced three years ago but has faced significant challenges in establishing a panel to develop regulations and standardize courses within the category. The National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) has struggled to create regulatory bodies and set minimum operational standards, leaving professions such as art therapists, athletic trainers, audiologists, and physiotherapists largely unregulated.
Yagna Shukla, chairperson of the NCAHP, explained to Education Times that the Act encompasses approximately 56 professions. While an interim committee established a few state councils prior to the NCAHP’s formation in January 2024, the commission aims to expedite the process of forming a panel with members from these councils. The state councils will play a crucial role in identifying specific requirements and submitting reports as mandated by the Act.
Shukla emphasized the NCAHP’s commitment to ensuring quality education and training in the allied healthcare professions. The lack of regulation has resulted in a worrying trend of subpar education and institutions operating without proper guidelines.
Dr. B Srinivas, secretary of the National Medical Commission (NMC), highlighted the concerning situation. He pointed out that numerous institutions are operating in inadequate facilities with insufficient standards for curriculum, faculty, and infrastructure. These institutions often charge exorbitant fees while providing substandard education and facilities, leaving graduates ill-prepared for the job market.
The absence of a common entrance exam for admission into these allied and healthcare courses adds to the existing problems. The NMC, established as the regulatory body for medical colleges, has long advocated for similar regulations for allied and healthcare institutions. These regulations should encompass guidelines on department requirements, faculty numbers, classroom size, curriculum standards, lecture hours, and practical training duration.
While the NCAHP is working to meet the Supreme Court’s deadline by establishing councils, the development of regulations is still ongoing. Shukla confirmed their commitment to adhering to the court’s timeframe.
Dr. Srinivas stressed the importance of partnerships between allied healthcare institutions and hospitals for student internships. This collaboration will enhance practical knowledge and provide students with valuable experience in interacting with patients. He also highlighted the necessity of regular inspections to ensure institutions meet the defined standards and only those that comply should be granted recognition.
The Health Ministry has instructed the NCAHP to draw inspiration from the NMC’s structure to ensure robust regulation and supervision, aiming to bring much-needed structure and quality to the allied healthcare sector in India.
