Varanasi: A week-long orientation programme, “Shiksha,” is being conducted for interns at the faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, in line with the directions of the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM).Addressing the interns on Thursday, Prof Anand Chaudhary of the department of Rasa Shastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana said medical certificates issued by Ayurveda doctors are now valid for govt services, RTOs, insurance companies and private institutions.He said any institution refusing to accept such certificates could face action under the rules. In such cases, the Ayurveda doctor whose certificate is rejected by a govt or private institution should immediately inform NCISM. The commission, using its statutory powers, may issue a notice to the institution concerned and seek an explanation, following which the institution may be required to amend its rules.Prof Chaudhary urged interns to understand the practical aspects of medical practice with confidence and follow the correct procedure while issuing medical certificates.He also briefed the interns on regulations framed to curb misleading advertisements of Ayurvedic medicines. He explained why these measures have not been fully effective and expressed concern over the involvement of some medical practitioners in such practices.In a market-driven system, he said, misleading advertisements lead to the social and economic exploitation of the public. He cautioned interns against using medicines in clinical practice merely on the basis of advertisements and without proper evidence.Referring to misleading claims related to height increase, weight loss, diabetes and kidney-related cures, Prof. Chaudhary said the market is filled with such advertisements. He warned interns that they may be financially lured into promoting such products and advised them to remain cautious.
