Lucknow: Nearly one in four patients in the state first seeks treatment from quacks before consulting a registered doctor, according to the Indian Medical Association. The estimate, based on clinical observations, includes OPD and emergency patients. “Even today, around 25% of patients first go to quacks before reaching a qualified doctor. In rural and semi-rural areas, especially on city outskirts like Lucknow, this share can be higher,” said IMA UP president Dr Rajeev Goel, adding that many patients arrive only after their condition worsens.“Most patients come with aggravated problems. Typhoid patients, for instance, often receive incomplete or wrong initial treatment, making the infection more severe by the time they reach a proper facility,” said Dr Shweta Srivastava, secretary, IMA Lucknow branch.IMA says laws against illegal medical practice are poorly enforced.“There are laws, but enforcement is weak. Most patients are from rural or semi-rural areas and economically weaker sections, making them more vulnerable,” said Dr Ravish Agarwal, president-elect, IMA UP. “Accessibility and affordability are the main reasons. In many areas, qualified doctors or govt facilities are far or overcrowded. Quacks are easily available, charge less initially and gain people’s trust,” said Dr Manoj K Asthana, president, IMA Lucknow branch.“They go to save time and money, but it leads to complications later.”The association said govt raids on illegal clinics and diagnostic centres have not kept pace with their spread. Regulation has evolved. Earlier, many practised without registration due to lack of a structured system. National Medical Commission later introduced formal procedures following Supreme Court directions, but doctors say compliance became complex with repeated documentation and inspections. Subsequently, state govt extended registration validity to five years, reducing administrative burden. Meanwhile, authorities say action against quackery is ongoing. “Regular drives are being carried out. If anyone has information, they can contact the health department. Their identity will be kept confidential,” said Dr AP Singh, additional chief medical officer.Doctors say improving access to affordable, timely healthcare, especially in rural areas, remains key to reducing dependence on unqualified practitioners.
