DLP Report
ISLAMABAD
The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) has approved and enforced a comprehensively revised Code of Ethics for all registered medical and dental practitioners and recognised institutions across the country, terming it a major step towards strengthening ethical governance and safeguarding public trust in healthcare.
The revised code, endorsed by the council after two years of review, aims to address contemporary clinical challenges, bridge regulatory gaps and align national standards with evolving legal and professional frameworks.
PM&DC President Rizwan Taj said adherence to ethical standards formed the foundation of safe and quality healthcare and was essential to maintaining public confidence in the medical profession.
He said the updated code placed patient safety, dignity, confidentiality and informed consent at its core, while reinforcing accountability in clinical practice, research, teaching and professional conduct.
According to the council, the framework strengthens disciplinary oversight, ensures non-discrimination and equitable care, and provides clear guidance on managing conflicts of interest.
A key feature of the revision is the introduction of inclusive guidelines for admission and professional practice of persons with disabilities. The measures align with national disability laws and Pakistan’s international commitments, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the World Health Organization Global Disability Action Plan.
Mr Taj said education was a fundamental right and should remain accessible without discrimination based on gender or physical ability, provided professional competence and patient safety were not compromised.
Under the revised policy, a structured two to five per cent disability quota has been introduced in recognised medical and dental institutions. Admissions will be based on functional capacity assessments alongside academic criteria, including MDCAT and FSc/IBCC equivalence requirements.
Eligibility for practice and licensure will depend on the ability to safely perform essential professional duties, supported by reasonable accommodations such as assistive technologies, adapted training environments and modified examination arrangements.
The PM&DC will establish multidisciplinary Medical Fitness Boards at federal and provincial levels to conduct objective functional assessments, recommend appropriate disciplines and certify fitness for licensure with accommodations where necessary.
