ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has declared clinical practice by pharmacists, psychologists and dental technicians illegal, tightening regulations amid a worrying rise in HIV and hepatitis cases across the country .
In a formal letter sent to the Ministry of National Health Services on April 21, the medical regulator expressed serious concern over unauthorised medical practices, warning that such activities are contributing to the spread of infectious diseases, particularly in Islamabad and Mirpurkhas .
Under the PMDC Act 2022, only registered doctors and dentists are legally authorised to diagnose illnesses, prescribe medicines and perform medical procedures . The council clarified that the Allied Health Professionals Council Act 2022 does not grant these professionals the authority to prescribe or independently treat patients .
The crackdown follows alarming health data showing at least 618 new HIV cases were recorded in Islamabad between January 2025 and March 2026, with adult men accounting for more than 64 percent of infections . Health officials have linked the rise to unsafe medical practices, high-risk behaviours and weak regulatory oversight .
The PMDC has instructed health departments across the country to take urgent action against violators and warned that strict legal penalties will be imposed on individuals using the “doctor” title without proper registration .
The council urged the Allied Health Professionals Council to issue clear directions for all allied health professionals to immediately refrain from any independent clinical practice, terming such activities a direct threat to patient safety and public health .
