IMA Sounds Alarm on "Mixopathy" Threat, Backs Alternative Medicine

DEHRADUN: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has expressed strong opposition to the integration of alternative medicine systems with modern medical practices. Dr. Dilip Bhanushali, the newly appointed president of the IMA, voiced these concerns during the installation ceremony of the association's new office bearers in Dehradun on Saturday.

Dr. Bhanushali described the practice of combining different medical systems, commonly referred to as mixopathy, as a serious issue. He noted that approximately 80% of practitioners in alternative medicine fields continue to prescribe modern drugs despite a Supreme Court ruling that explicitly prohibits such actions. “We have no objection to Ayurveda, homeopathy, or other traditional medical sciences practicing independently. However, blending them with modern medicine creates outcomes that are neither effective nor safe,” he stated.

He further cautioned that encouraging mixopathy could lead to an increase in quackery. Untrained or undertrained practitioners might prescribe treatments—such as high-dose steroids and antibiotics—that could harm patients who are unaware of the potential risks.

Dr. Bhanushali emphasized the extensive training required to become a modern surgeon, which typically spans eight to ten years. He questioned the rationale of allowing practitioners from alternative medicine disciplines, such as Ayurveda, homeopathy, or Unani, to perform complex medical procedures after only a brief training period. “How can a one-year course prepare someone to carry out the responsibilities of a surgeon? Will such practitioners truly be able to provide the level of care their patients deserve?” he asked.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Sai Sindhuja K/MSM)