ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has approved and enforced a revised code of ethics for all registered medical and dental practitioners (RMDPs) and recognised institutions nationwide. The code has introduced a structured minimum two per cent and maximum 5pc disability quota across all recognised medical and dental institutions.

President of PMDC Prof Dr Rizwan Taj, in a statement, said the revised code has also placed patient safety, dignity, confidentiality, and informed consent at its core, reinforcing accountability across clinical practice, research, teaching, and professional conduct.

“The updated framework strengthens disciplinary oversight, ensures non-discrimination and equitable care, and provides clear gui-dance on managing conflicts of interest while upholding integrity in all professional interactions,” he added.

“A major milestone within the revision is the introduction of inclusive guidelines for the admission and professional practice of individuals with disabilities. These measures align with national disability laws and Pakistan’s international commitments, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), the WHO Global Disability Action Plan, and WFME standards,” he said.

Revised code applies to all registered medical, dental practitioners and recognised institutions

The revised code introduces a structured 2-5pc disability quota across recognised medical and dental institutions. Now, admission will be determined through functional capacity assessments alongside established academic criteria, including MDCAT and FSc/IBCC equivalence requirements.

Eligibility for practice and licensure will be based strictly on the ability to safely perform essential professional duties, supported by reasonable accommodations such as assistive technologies, adapted training environments, accessible facilities, and modified examination arrangements.

To ensure transparent and standardised evaluation, the PMDC will establish multi-disciplinary medical fitness boards at federal and provincial levels. These boards will include relevant specialists and a disability rights representative to conduct objective functional assessments, recommend appropriate disciplines, certify fitness for licensure with accommodations where necessary, and provide a structured appeals process.

Prof Taj reiterated that while inclusion was a matter of principle and law, patient safety remains paramount.

“No candidate will be denied opportunity solely based on disability; however, formal assessment will determine the capacity to perform essential duties safely and effectively,” he added.

Published in Dawn, March 3rd, 2026