The New Consumer Protection Act Controversy: Does It Apply to Doctors in India?

A new Consumer Protection Act (CPA) was introduced in 2019 and has created quite a stir in the medical fraternity. There is widespread uncertainty as to whether this new Act applies to the medical profession. However, on careful review of the original CPA of 1986, the definition of services included within the Act, and understanding the changes introduced in CPA 2019, the legal application of CPA 2019 to medical professionals becomes clear. While the term medical services has been removed from the list of services under the purview of the Act, the phrase "but not limited to" before listing the services leaves the door open for the inclusion of other services.