MBBS docs to get IMA logo to protect public from quacks

In a unique initiative to check unauthorised practicing of allopathy, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) will soon launch a new logo to identity doctors who hold MBBS degrees. According to a senior IMA official, the purpose of the initiative is to counter quacks and unauthorised doctors who often practice as alopathy doctors. Only MBBS and higher medical degree holders will be permitted to use the new logo.

The logo will have the symbol "Dr" in the middle of the 'plus' sign which will be red and the symbols will be protected under the Trade Mark Act, 1999. A red colour 'plus' with "Dr" written in the middle would make it different from the Red Cross Society logo, explained a senior IMA official.

"It would help identify a qualified allopathic doctor on the basis of an officially verified trade insignia. A special drive will also be launched from time to time to sensitise people so that they do no visit any unauthorised doctor," the official added.

Currently, there is one logo which is used by doctors in different sphere of medicines but the IMA wants a separate logo for allopathy doctors only.