THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A new rule has been introduced banning the private practice of doctors within a one-kilometre radius of hospitals employing health department workers. The guidelines for private practice were amended on the recommendation of the Director of Health.

There will be an exemption for private practice in permanent houses or quarters within a kilometre radius of hospitals. Private practice should not be associated with establishments such as labs, scanning centres, pharmacies, or buildings constructed for industrial purposes. At the same time, the rule not to practice in rented buildings has been waived. It is also suggested that doctors should not do private practice in more than one location.

Do not promote or advertise private practice or qualifications on social media. There was also a recommendation to minimize the use of medical devices for diagnosis. At the same time, the new guidelines also state that those getting treatment as part of private practice should not be provided with any services in the institution where the doctors work.

However, it is common for gynaecologists and surgeons to ask their patients to come to the hospital where they work for follow-up treatment.