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Unqualified medical practice, commonly referred to as quackery, is one of the most dangerous threats to public health in Pakistan. In cities like Peshawar and Islamabad, as well as rural areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, unregistered and untrained individuals often claim to be doctors, dentists, or medical specialists without holding valid qualifications or licenses. This malpractice not only puts lives at risk but also violates multiple provisions of Pakistani health and criminal laws.
The law in Pakistan takes a strict stance against such unqualified medical practice. Various statutes and regulations aim to protect patients from harm, ensure only competent professionals provide healthcare, and penalize those who pose as doctors without meeting legal requirements.
Under Pakistani law, an "unqualified medical practitioner" is a person who:
Even individuals with partial or unrelated medical training (e.g., paramedics, lab technicians) cannot legally act as independent doctors.
Pakistan Medical and Dental Council Ordinance (now under Pakistan Medical Commission Act) – Only registered practitioners with valid licenses may practice medicine or dentistry.
Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) –
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Healthcare Commission Act, 2015 – Empowers the Commission to seal unregistered clinics and penalize quacks in KPK.
The penalties may include:
The penalties may include:
If you come across someone claiming to be a doctor without the proper qualifications, it is important to act promptly to protect yourself and others from harm. The first step is to gather solid evidence of their activities. This may include taking photographs of their clinic or signboard, keeping copies of any prescriptions they have issued, and noting down their full address and contact details. Such evidence will strengthen your complaint and make it easier for the authorities to take action.
Once you have collected the necessary proof, contact the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Healthcare Commission if the incident occurred in Peshawar or anywhere else in KPK. For matters in Islamabad, you should reach out to the Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority. These bodies are responsible for monitoring healthcare standards and have the legal authority to investigate and shut down illegal practices.
When filing your complaint, prepare a written statement that clearly outlines the facts, including dates, the name of the practitioner (if known), the nature of their activities, and any supporting evidence. Be sure to include your contact information so the authorities can follow up with you if needed. After submission, keep in touch with the relevant body to ensure the case progresses. By law, these regulatory authorities are obligated to investigate complaints and take enforcement action, which may include sealing the clinic, imposing fines, or pursuing criminal charges against the offender.
Unqualified medical practice is not only unethical but also illegal in Pakistan. The law provides multiple remedies—both preventive and punitive—to safeguard public health. If you or a loved one has suffered due to treatment by an unqualified person, immediate legal action can prevent further harm and secure justice.
Kakakhel Law Associates has extensive experience in handling medical negligence and healthcare law cases in Peshawar, Islamabad, and across KPK. Our legal team assists victims in filing complaints, pursuing criminal charges, and claiming compensation. Protecting patients from fraud and negligence is not just a legal duty—it is a moral responsibility.