The Maharashtra Association of Practising Pathologists and Microbiologists (MAPPM) has urged the Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER) to conduct raids at pathological laboratories, cit
The Maharashtra Association of Practising Pathologists and Microbiologists (MAPPM) has urged the Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER) to conduct raids at pathological laboratories, citing misconduct in these labs.
According to the government resolution (GR), while pathologists, microbiologists, and specialised doctors are authorised to run laboratories, in the course of an independent drive conducted by MAPPM, several illegalities were found like in certain cities and districts, doctors had hired two to three technicians for day-to-day operations who were not trained to run labs.
Dr Sandeep Yadav, president, MAPPM, said, -"Many pathology laboratories are taking people for a ride. Lab technicians, and not pathologists, sign reports. We found this illegal practice rampant in Thane, Navi Mumbai, Panvel, and Borivali. There are around 500 to 600 labs in Mumbai; 250 to 300 in Pune; 300 to 350 in Nagpur; and 250 in Aurangabad. Laboratories with MCI-recognised pathologists are 221 whereas illegal labs are 1,113.-"
According to the GR, -"Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technician (DMLT) holders cannot run pathology laboratories independently or sign reports; a pathologist has to be there to oversee things and finalise reports. Those violating rules will face action.-"
However, Dr Pravin Shingare, director, DMER, acknowledged the issue. -"It is true that there are issues but we are working on them. Technicians can perform basic tests and many tests are conducted on machine. Currently, we are carrying out our own drive to investigate such activities.-"
The Medical Council of India (MCI) doesn't allow diploma holders to sign reports; they can only assist qualified pathologists.
