KATHMANDU: The Nepal Medical Council has warned of strict legal action against individuals illegally using the title “Dr.” or “physician” without registration in the council or other authorized professional bodies.

Issuing an urgent notice on Thursday, the council directed unauthorized users to remove the title within 15 days from signboards, prescription pads, visiting cards, and social media platforms, including Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. The council said it would adopt a “zero tolerance” policy and launch monitoring through physical and digital inspections after the deadline.

The council clarified that only doctors registered under the Nepal Medical Council are legally permitted to examine patients, provide consultations, and prescribe allopathic medicines in Nepal. It also stated that holding a foreign or domestic degree alone does not authorize independent medical practice without council registration.

According to the council, violators could face up to three years of imprisonment, a fine of up to Rs 3,000, or both under the Nepal Medical Council Act, 1964. Misleading the public on matters related to health and patient safety would not be tolerated by the council.