IMA threats agitation if Service tax levied on medical services

New Delhi, Jan 8 (UNI) The Indian Medical Association (IMA) today threatened to launch a nation-wide agitation if the Centre imposes service tax on medical services.

''IMA will fight this move of the Government tooth and nail.

Last year also when the general budget was to be presented this proposal was floated,'' newly elected IMA National President Ajay Kumar told a news conference.

He said if the tax is levied, the burden will be passed on to patients, making healthcare facilities unaffordable for the poor.

''When medical professionals will be asked to pay some amount of money they will obviously pass it on the patients to ensure that the entire amount is realised,'' he said.

''This move will spell doom for poor patients.... We strongly oppose the move,'' he said.

Dr Kumar said the IMA will function like a trade union to ensure that the rights of doctors are safeguarded.

''Since medical practitioners were brought under the purview of the Consumer Protection Act by the Government patients have become consumers. Therefore to ensure rights of doctors the IMA will function like a Trade union,'' he added.

UNI