A doctor's duty of care is non-negotiable, and the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) is here to remind us of that. In a recent statement, the MMA has addressed the concerning reports of doctors allegedly leasing their credentials to aesthetic operators, which has led to the improper prescription of weight-loss medications.
The Doctor's Responsibility: A Matter of Ethics and Patient Safety
Dr. Thirunavukarasu Rajoo, the MMA president, emphasizes that the duty of care rests solely with the doctor. He highlights that such practices, if proven true, constitute a severe breach of professional ethics and a violation of the doctor's responsibility towards their patients.
The Letter of Credentialing and Privileging (LCP) is a crucial document that ties a doctor's competence, clinical judgment, and accountability to their practice. Dr. Thirunavukarasu makes it clear that when a clinic operates under a doctor's name without genuine supervision or when an LCP is essentially rented out, the responsibility does not vanish.
The Non-Delegable Responsibility and Its Consequences
He further explains that this responsibility is non-delegable, meaning it cannot be transferred or avoided. It carries potential medico-legal consequences under existing laws and professional regulations.
Dr. Thirunavukarasu expresses his concern over the inappropriate use of semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) as quick cosmetic fixes. These medications, originally intended for diabetes and obesity management, require a thorough medical assessment, counseling, and follow-up. Prescribing them without proper oversight can lead to severe gastrointestinal symptoms, dehydration, and other complications for patients.
Maintaining Clinical Standards: A Call for Vigilance
He strongly emphasizes that financial arrangements should never compromise clinical standards, and this applies to all healthcare settings, including physical clinics, aesthetic centers, and even digital or telemedicine platforms. Medicine should not be reduced to a purely transactional process.
Dr. Thirunavukarasu advises the public to exercise caution and verify the registration status of their doctors. Patients should ensure that consultations include a full assessment and counseling to make informed decisions about their health.
He reminds us that no injection or procedure is risk-free, and informed consent is a critical aspect of healthcare. Patients must be fully aware of the benefits, risks, and alternatives before undergoing any treatment.
The MMA stands firm in its support for investigations and enforcement by relevant authorities where breaches of professional ethics are identified.
And this is the part most people miss: the importance of understanding the ethical boundaries and responsibilities that come with the medical profession. It's a reminder that healthcare is not just about the treatment but also about the trust and care that doctors owe to their patients.
