Who Can Treat You? Know the Facts About BHMS Doctors with CCMP
1. What is the CCMP course?
Answer:
CCMP stands for Certificate Course in Modern Pharmacology, a one-year structured course designed by MUHS (Maharashtra University of Health Sciences) for registered BHMS doctors. It trains them in modern pharmacology and clinical medicine, including practical and theoretical aspects.
2. Who teaches the CCMP course?
Answer:
The course is taught only in government and private modern medical colleges by qualified MD/MS faculty from modern medicine. Exams are conducted by MUHS.
3. Is CCMP a shortcut to MBBS?
Answer:
No. It is a supplementary course that adds modern pharmacology and clinical knowledge to the existing BHMS curriculum. It enables limited practice within the scope defined by the law and curriculum.
4. Is it legal for the Maharashtra Government to create such a course?
Answer:
Yes. Under Article 246 of the Constitution and State List Entry 6, states have the power to regulate health and medical practitioners. The CCMP course was introduced legally through amendments in Maharashtra Medical Council Act, 1965 and Maharashtra Medical Practitioners Act, 1960, passed in the State Legislature and signed by the Governor in 2014.
5. Is the course approved by any court?
Answer:
Yes. The Bombay High Court (2014, 2015) and Supreme Court (2015) have repeatedly refused to stay the implementation of the law or CCMP. All legal provisions are in force.
6. Is MMC allowed to register CCMP doctors?
Answer:
Yes. The Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) has legally included CCMP qualification at Serial No. 28 in a separate register, as permitted by state law.
7. Do CCMP doctors register in the same register as MBBS doctors?
Answer:
No. They are registered in a separate register, maintaining clarity and transparency between qualifications.
8. Is CCMP recognized for prescribing allopathic medicines?
Answer:
Yes. As per the FDA Maharashtra Circular dated 26.12.2024, CCMP holders are recognized under Section 2(ee) of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and are allowed to purchase, stock, and prescribe allopathic medicines.
9. Is CCMP recognized nationally?
Answer:
It is a state-level qualification, valid under the jurisdiction of the Maharashtra Government. States have the constitutional authority to create and implement such health programs.
10. Are CCMP doctors practicing cross-pathy?
Answer:
No. CCMP is not cross-practice. It is a legally created, formally taught bridge course, with defined scope of practice under state law, and includes training in allopathic subjects.
11. Is the public at risk if CCMP doctors practice modern medicine?
Answer:
No. BHMS doctors already have medical training. After CCMP, they gain further clinical and pharmacological knowledge under supervision. This improves healthcare access and safety, especially in rural areas.
12. What about the Indian Medical Association’s (IMA) objections?
Answer:
IMA’s petitions to stay or cancel the CCMP course were rejected by courts. Despite this, IMA continues to misinform media and public. Their claims are unfounded and politically motivated.
13. Has the government forced MMC to implement registration?
Answer:
No. The MMC took the decision based on legal advice from the Law & Judiciary Department and in view of court rulings, not under pressure. There is no illegality in their action.
14. Why was the CCMP course needed?
Answer:
Due to a severe shortage of MBBS doctors, especially in rural and tribal regions. CCMP allows trained BHMS doctors to bridge the gap and provide primary healthcare safely.
15. How many doctors have completed CCMP?
Answer:
Till date, over 9160 BHMS doctors have successfully completed the CCMP course across Maharashtra.
16. Where can patients or media verify this information?
Answer:
All notifications, laws, and circulars are available in the official gazettes and MUHS/FDA/MMC/MCH records. You may also visit the Maharashtra Homeopathy Council office for clarification.
17. Can other states implement CCMP-like programs?
Answer:
Yes, if permitted by their respective state governments and in accordance with constitutional provisions. Health is a state subject, and each state can make its own decisions.
18. Are CCMP doctors allowed to do surgeries or critical care?
Answer:
No. CCMP does not authorize surgical or tertiary level practice. It permits basic modern medical management in outpatient and general medicine settings.
19. Will this reduce the importance of MBBS doctors?
Answer:
No. MBBS doctors remain the primary allopathic care providers. CCMP is a support system, not a replacement. It ensures health coverage where MBBS doctors are not available.
20. How is the syllabus of CCMP designed?
Answer:
The syllabus was created by a board of MD/MS experts after a comparative study between BHMS and MBBS, and is approved by MUHS and the Medical Faculty of Modern Medicine.
The CCMP course is lawful, regulated, court-approved, and designed in public interest. Instead of creating fear and confusion, we must support every effort that strengthens our healthcare system — especially in underserved areas.
With responsibility and dedication,
Dr. Ajaz Ahmad Khan
BHMS, CCMP (MUHS) ,PGDEMS ( TISS )
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