In a significant policy reform, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has introduced a new provision that allows government hospital specialists to transition into teaching roles in medical colleges. The move aims to bridge the gap between clinical practice and medical education by integrating experienced professionals into academia.
Eligibility Criteria for Faculty Positions
Under the new provision, specialists with a postgraduate medical degree and at least two years of experience in a government hospital with 220 or more beds can be appointed as assistant professors in broad specialties. Furthermore, those with ten or more years of experience will qualify to become associate professors.
Promoting Expertise, Not Plugging Shortages
Contrary to popular belief, this initiative is not simply a response to faculty shortages. Dr. BN Gangadhar, Chairman of the NMC, clarified, “The goal is not to fill vacant posts but to create an enabling environment where experienced specialists, who haven’t traditionally participated in academic settings, can contribute to medical education.”
He emphasized that many skilled clinicians have valuable experience but lack formal pedagogical training. The NMC intends to support them in making this transition effectively.
Mandatory Training for New Faculty
To maintain academic standards, the NMC will mandate all newly appointed faculty to complete training such as the Basic Course in Medical Education Technology (BCMET). Recognized medical education units will offer this training under NMC’s purview.
“This faculty development initiative ensures that even specialists coming directly from clinical practice will be equipped to deliver effective classroom instruction,” added Dr. Gangadhar.
Part of Broader Reforms Under Draft Regulations
This provision forms a key part of the Teachers Eligibility and Qualifications (TEQ) Regulations, a draft policy framework developed by the NMC. The draft, which proposes changes to faculty eligibility and qualifications, has been finalized and is now under review before publication in the official gazette.
Challenges in Retaining Specialist Faculty
While the policy expands the teaching pool, retaining specialists may prove difficult. Many of them prioritize private practice over academic roles, leading to high attrition rates.
“Remuneration and service conditions remain governed by state departments and may not always match the incentives of private practice,” acknowledged Dr. Gangadhar. “Responsibility for retention rests largely with the respective institutions and state authorities.”
Student Benefits and Cost-Effectiveness
Despite challenges, the policy promises significant benefits for students. They will gain exposure to faculty with deep clinical expertise, enriching their practical understanding of medicine.
Dr. Gangadhar highlighted the financial efficiency of the policy. “Hospitals can function as teaching institutes by using their current doctors as faculty. This eliminates the need for additional government spending.”
Implementation Timeline
As reported by educationtimes, the NMC will begin faculty appointments once the regulations are officially notified in the gazette. Medical colleges can then initiate recruitment based on the updated norms.
“This is a step toward building a practice-informed academic ecosystem,” said Dr. Gangadhar. “While the long-term academic impact will become clear over time, the immediate outcome is a broader, better-trained faculty base ready to guide future medical professionals.”