NMC Emphasizes the Need for Clear Prescription Writing in Medical Education

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has directed all medical colleges to prioritize the importance of writing clear and legible prescriptions within their curriculum.

In a recent communication to state health department officials and medical institution leaders, the NMC highlighted this initiative as part of its compliance with a Punjab and Haryana High Court ruling from August 27.

This court order emphasizes that legible prescriptions are a crucial aspect of the Right to Health under Article 21 of the Constitution.

The court also referenced several legal provisions, including the National Medical Commission Act, 2019, which mandates that prescriptions should be written legibly and preferably in capital letters.

Further, the NMC pointed out the significance of legibility in medical documentation, as outlined in the Clinical Establishments Act, 2010.

To enhance monitoring of prescription practices, the NMC has mandated that each medical college establish a dedicated Sub-Committee under the Drugs and Therapeutics Committee.

This sub-committee will be responsible for developing a structured plan to evaluate prescription compliance with existing regulations and guidelines.

Additionally, it will analyze prescription patterns, identify any deviations, and propose corrective measures to improve adherence. All findings must be documented in the minutes of the DTC meetings and shared with the NMC.

The NMC has reiterated that every physician must write prescriptions with generic names clearly and preferably in capital letters, ensuring rational use of medications.

Compliance with these directives is mandatory, and the NMC has urged all institutions to establish the sub-committees immediately and implement the monitoring processes without delay.