New Delhi, Mar 24: The Centre has reiterated that medical representatives are not permitted to visit Central government hospitals, citing the need to curb unethical marketing practices in the healthcare sector.
The Department of Health & Family Welfare said the restriction is in line with office orders issued by the Directorate General of Health Services on May 12, 2023, and May 28, 2025. These directives prohibit frequent visits by pharmaceutical company representatives to government healthcare facilities.
The move aims to prevent undue influence on doctors and promote ethical practices in the dissemination of medical information.
According to the department, doctors continue to receive updates on new treatments, diagnostic procedures and medical advancements through digital platforms, including email, as well as through Continuing Medical Education (CME) programmes and professional conferences.
Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers, Anupriya Patel, shared the information in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday, underscoring the government’s broader push to regulate pharmaceutical marketing and ensure transparency in healthcare practices.
