Maharashtra: Doctors body launches app to register negligence cases

Mumbai: With elections just round the corner, the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) on Wednesday launched its mobile application, Parivartan, on Android and Apple phones. The app would make it easier for users to file medical negligence cases, check if the doctors treating them have valid degrees, and track doctors in the vicinity. The MMC is a statutory body that monitors state doctors and the mobile app has been created by a group of medical practitioners.

“This is a prototype app which has relevant information about doctors. It is easy for doctors and patients to work on this app,” said Solapur-based Dr Gurram Manik, who has developed the app.

Dr Sangeeta Pikale, former president, Association of Medical Consultants, said, “For something or the other, doctors get nailed, so this app is a must for day-to-day updates that will help doctors and also strengthen doctor-patient relationships.”

Meanwhile, 49 doctors are contesting a total of nine seats in the MMC even as the state has over 85,000 registered doctors eligible to cast their votes in this election. MMC elections seem to be generating a high level of interest and awareness among doctors who are even forming groups to contest elections somewhat on the lines of political parties.

Campaigning is being done using social media and doctors are preparing manifestos and brochures and requesting votes in workshops and conferences. Since the last time elections for the quasi-judicial body were held, in 2009, the number of nominations has also increased.