Egypt doctors' syndicate to discuss new rules for doctors' media appearances

Egypt's General Syndicate of Doctors confirmed it will discuss amending its professional conduct code to regulate doctors' media appearances at its general assembly on October 23.

• The syndicate said amendment drafting followed discussion sessions with specialists and coordination with media and health regulators.
• Council member Ahmed Behles said the rules bar doctors from claiming unverified therapeutic results or unaccredited qualifications and from promoting unapproved drugs or diets.
• Behles added the rules prohibit publishing patients' medical data or images without explicit written consent, except where the law permits.
• Digital transformation committee rapporteur Ahmed Zohran said the syndicate's website lets media and citizens verify doctors' registered data and specialties.
• The proposed rules would require doctors to introduce themselves by their registered specialties and rely on scientifically valid information.
• The amendments would also prohibit the exploitation of children in medical promotional content produced by doctors.