IMA urges Haryana to reconsider ultrasound registration requirement

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has asked the Haryana government to rethink its decision that requires pregnant women to register with local nurse midwives before receiving free ultrasound services. The IMA sent a letter to health officials expressing concerns about privacy and the impact on women's healthcare. The IMA supports the government's goal of monitoring pregnancies and tackling female foeticide. However, they worry that mandatory registration could discourage women, especially those with unplanned pregnancies, from accessing needed healthcare. They believe many women may not feel comfortable sharing personal information with local staff. The IMA pointed out that forcing registration could lead some mothers to seek care from unqualified practitioners, risking their health and safety. They emphasized that this is particularly concerning in urban areas where finding an ANM might be hard, and registration could delay emergency care. They also raised ethical issues. Pregnant women facing complications in their first trimester may need quick medical assessment, including ultrasounds. The IMA warned that requiring registration could delay urgent care and be life-threatening in critical situations. Additionally, the association criticized the order for potentially creating difficulties for women traveling from distant districts for ultrasound services. They said that having to return for registration could be very inconvenient and stressful. The IMA suggested that registration should only be required for pregnancies beyond 10 weeks, as sex determination generally happens later. This change could reduce the risk of unwanted pregnancies being terminated in unsafe conditions. The IMA's letter concluded by asking the government to pause the current order until better guidelines are established. Health department officials confirmed they have received the letter and noted that discussions have taken place about implementing the plan.