PM&DC Issues Strict Warning on Scope of Practice – Key Message for Allied Health & O&P Professionals

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council has issued an important official letter (dated 21 April 2026) raising serious concerns about the unauthorized clinical practice by allied health professionals across Pakistan.

What is the issue?

• PM&DC has noticed that some allied health professionals are:
  • Prescribing medicines
  • Performing clinical procedures
  • Doing tasks outside their professional training
• These actions are illegal and dangerous for patients.

Why is this important?

• Recent cases of HIV and Hepatitis have increased concerns.
• Poor practices and lack of proper supervision are putting public health at risk.
• The council says strict action is now necessary.

What does the law say?

• Only PM&DC-registered doctors and dentists can:
  • Diagnose patients
  • Prescribe medicines
  • Perform surgeries or invasive procedures
• Misusing the title “Doctor” or practicing without registration can lead to legal penalties.

What about Allied Health Professionals?

The Allied Health Professionals Council is responsible for regulating allied professions.

However:

• Allied professionals are NOT allowed to:
  • Diagnose independently
  • Prescribe drugs
  • Perform surgical or invasive procedures
• Their role is supportive, technical, and rehabilitative, not independent clinical practice.

Special Note for Orthotics & Prosthetics (O&P)

For professionals in Orthotics & Prosthetics, this letter is very important.

What O&P professionals CAN do:

• Patient assessment for prosthetic/orthotic needs
• Designing and fitting devices
• Rehabilitation support
• Gait training and follow-up care

What O&P professionals CANNOT do:

• Prescribe medicines
• Diagnose medical conditions independently
• Perform surgeries or invasive treatments
• Present themselves as medical doctors

👉 Even if you have strong clinical experience, you must stay within your defined scope.

 What PM&DC is asking for:

• Immediate action by health authorities
• Strict implementation of scope of practice
• Clear guidelines for all allied professionals
• Prevention of quackery and unsafe practices

 Key Message:

This is not against allied professionals — it is about patient safety and professional boundaries.

For O&P professionals, this is a reminder to:

• Work ethically and within scope
• Strengthen collaboration with doctors
• Promote recognized and regulated practice

If every professional stays within their role, the healthcare system becomes safer.
But if boundaries are ignored — who will be responsible for patient harm?