Why Verifying Your Doctor's Credentials is Crucial
The proliferation of online healthcare directories, teleconsultation apps, and fake medical claims makes independent credential verification an essential patient safety measure. Under the National Medical Commission Act, every practicing allopathic physician in India must hold an active registration number issued by a State Medical Council or the NMC.
What Information is Publicly Available on the NMC Registry?
- Doctor's full legal name and photograph.
- Registration Number and State Medical Council of registration.
- Year of registration and qualifying university/medical college (e.g., MBBS, MD, MS, DM, MCh).
- Verified additional qualifications recognized by the Commission.
Step-by-Step Guide to Verify a Doctor Online
- Visit the official National Medical Commission portal at
nmc.org.in. - Click on the "Information Desk" tab and select "National Medical Register (NMR) / Indian Medical Register (IMR)".
- Choose your search parameter:
- Search by Registration Number and select the appropriate State Council (fastest method).
- Or search by Doctor's Name.
- Review the displayed credentials, registered medical degrees, and verify whether the practitioner holds recognized postgraduate qualifications for specialized procedures.
Red Flags When Choosing a Healthcare Practitioner
- Practitioners refusing to display their state registration number on clinic prescription pads or bills.
- Unrecognized degrees (e.g., non-NMC approved distance-learning diplomas advertised as super-specialties).
- Guarantees of 100% cure for incurable chronic illnesses (violating the Drugs and Magic Remedies Objectionable Advertisements Act).