NMC recommends 74-hr week duty for resident doctors

Tribune News Service

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New Delhi, August 16

No resident doctor should work for more than 74 hours per week, the task force of the National Medical Commission (NMC) has recommended.

“It is also important for medical students to sleep at least 7-8 hours per day for optimal mental and physical health. Strict adherence to the NMC regulations for a weekly one-day off is crucial,” the task force said in a report.

NMC has also directed medical colleges against deliberately failing students to collect fees for semester repetitions.

“Medical colleges could consider granting a ten-day vacation at least once a year to both undergraduate and postgraduate medical students on a rotational basis. This break is aimed at fostering family bonding,” NMC suggested.

It also suggested the faculties of colleges to remain approachable and accessible so that students could discuss their concerns. The report gave 44 recommendations including measures such as providing 24×7 support through the government’s counselling helpline tele-MANAS.

In an online survey conducted by the NMC, it was found that among UG students, 27.8 pc had been diagnosed with a mental condition and 16.2 pc had suicidal tendencies. Among PG students, 31.23 pc reported having suicidal thoughts.