MTaI calls for nuanced approach on DGHS’s ban of medical representatives from entering central govt hospitals

New Delhi: Reacting to the the recent directive by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) restricting the entry of medical representatives into government hospitals, the Medical Technology Association of India (MTaI) has called for a more nuanced and differentiated approach-especially concerning the medical devices and equipment sector.

“Medical technologies today are not static products; they are evolving systems deeply integrated into clinical workflows. Their safe and effective use necessitates continuous training, timely maintenance, and technical support- services often facilitated by qualified professionals from the MedTech industry,” mentioned the MTaI statement.

“Many of these representatives are not just sales personnel in the conventional sense. They are engineers, biomedical professionals, and trained specialists who work shoulder-to-shoulder with clinicians to ensure the optimal performance of complex and often life-saving equipment. Their presence becomes especially vital in resource-constrained government hospitals, where in-house technical staff may be insufficient,” added MTaI

MTai is of the opinion that the blanket restriction risks disrupting critical technical support, potentially compromising patient safety and the return on investment from high-value medical infrastructure. “Importantly, these professionals under this government operate under ethical guidelines such as the Uniform Code for Medical Device Marketing Practices and function in roles that are rooted in clinical and operational support rather than promotion. Their access to clinical settings is both purposeful and professional,” opined MTaI.

The leading MedTech association added: “Importantly, these professionals operate within a framework of ethical standards, such as the Uniform Code for Marketing Practices in Medical Devices (UCMPMD), which governs their conduct in clinical settings. Their roles are primarily rooted in clinical facilitation and operational support rather than promotional activities. Their presence in healthcare settings is both purposeful and professional.”

“India’s MedTech ecosystem also supports significant employment-with over 500,000 medical representatives across sectors. A sweeping restriction without due distinction may not only diminish the functionality of the health system but also affect livelihoods and deter future talent from entering the profession,” said MTaI.

“We urge the authorities to adopt a reform-oriented, transparent, and consultative approach-one that strengthens safeguards without weakening the critical human and technical support framework that underpins modern healthcare,” concluded the statement.