Srinagar, July 30 (KNS): In a significant move aimed at regulating the online behaviour of medical professionals, the Jammu & Kashmir Medical Council (JKMC) has issued comprehensive guidelines regarding the professional conduct of Registered Medical Practitioners (RMPs) on social media platforms.
Acknowledging the role of social media as a powerful communication tool, the Council emphasized the need to prevent its misuse, particularly in ways that may compromise patient privacy, confidentiality, and professional dignity.
The official order—JKMC/S/Social-M/2025/5723-5740, dated July 24, 2025—has been issued in alignment with the Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002.
No Advertising or Self-Promotion:
Doctors are barred from advertising their services or engaging in self-promotion, including posting personal images or exaggerated claims about their expertise. Hospitals and clinics may only publicize basic institutional details, and any attempt to buy likes or promote rankings online is strictly prohibited.
Patient Confidentiality:
RMPs have been directed not to share any patient-related content—including photos, medical records, or testimonials—without informed and explicit consent. Notably, such consent is deemed invalid if the patient is mentally or emotionally compromised.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Professional Conduct:
Doctors must refrain from prescribing medications or discussing treatments in public forums online. Sharing of educational content is permitted, provided it is factual, evidence-based, and within the practitioner’s domain of expertise.
Prohibitions:
The guidelines strictly prohibit showcasing treatment outcomes, surgeries, or images of patients. Endorsement of medical products, medicines, or services is also banned, along with any form of direct or indirect patient solicitation through digital media.
Best Practices Encouraged:
The Council advised doctors to maintain high levels of professionalism, share content responsibly, and avoid posting material that may undermine the profession’s integrity. Social media may be used for public health education, but only in a non-promotional, ethical, and evidence-based manner.
Strict Enforcement Measures:
The Council has warned that any violation of these guidelines will be treated as a breach of the Professional Conduct Regulations, 2002, and could invite disciplinary actions—including suspension of medical registration.
“The overarching principle remains rooted in medical ethics—ensuring that all communication is respectful, truthful, and professionally appropriate,” the JKMC stated in its official notification. (KNS)