The NMC task force will submit a full report by May 31.
New Delhi:
In response to the alarming rise in depression and suicides among medical students, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has formed a 15-member national task force to tackle mental health issues.
The task force will submit a full report by May 31, shedding light on the complexities surrounding mental health issues and suicides among medical students. Monthly progress reports will be submitted throughout this period to ensure transparency and accountability.
“The mental health of medical students has been a source of concern in the recent past, leading to depression and suicide among medical students. To address this issue, a national task force has been constituted by the anti-medical committee. shredding of the National Medical Commission (NMC),” said an official order issued on February 21.
In accordance with the terms and references, the working group will review existing literature and data on medical student mental health and suicide, analyze factors contributing to these challenges, and propose evidence-based strategies to improve mental health and prepare suicides.
Additionally, the committee will conduct visits to medical colleges where incidents of suicide have been reported. Its ultimate goal is to provide concrete recommendations aimed at promoting the mental well-being of medical students.
To facilitate its mission, the working group will convene regular meetings, virtually or in person, as deemed necessary. In addition, the committee reserves the right to co-opt additional members if necessary to enrich its study and ensure timely completion of the report.
Alarming statistics from recent RTI data reveal that in the last five years, 119 medical students, including 64 MBBS students and 55 postgraduate doctors, have tragically committed suicide. In addition, 1,166 students dropped out of medical studies. Cases of harassment and suicides are unfortunately common in various medical institutions across the country, including among aspirants preparing for the National Eligibility and Entrance Test (NEET).
