National Nursing and Midwifery Commission Bill 2023

National Nursing and Midwifery Commission Bill 2023

News: The Parliament has approved the National Nursing and Midwifery Commission (NNMC) Bill, 2023, a significant legislative reform aimed at revolutionizing the nursing education and practice sector.

Background:
• This bill will replace the existing Indian Nursing Council with a modern regulatory structure.
• Repeal the existing Indian Nursing Council Act, of 1947, as the act is outdated and does not reflect the current needs and demands

What is Nursing and Midwifery?
• Nursing involves providing healthcare services, monitoring patients, administering treatments, and assisting doctors.
• Midwifery specifically focuses on providing care to pregnant women before, during, and after childbirth, as well as newborn care. Both roles are critical in healthcare systems.

Key Provisions:
• National and State Nursing and Midwifery Commissions to regulate education, service standards, and conduct.
• Implementing standardized admission processes and maintaining competence for high-quality healthcare services.
• Having fixed tenures for Commission members to ensure transparency and prevent reappointment for vested interests.
• Focus on soft skill development and recognizing specialized courses to enhance nursing professionals’ expertise.
• Forming a National Advisory Council for balanced representation and promoting collaboration with other healthcare bodies.
• To facilitate Indian nurses’ global mobility through international expert participation in Commission meetings.

Way Forward
• It is widely expected that the bill will enhance standards, professionalism, transparency, and accountability in the nursing field.