A doctor should not solicit patients by distributing leaflets or by other such means. This is professional misconduct. 

This is regarded as an unethical act under Section 6.1 of the MCI regulation, which deals with advertising. Regulation 6.1.1 states: “Soliciting of patients directly or indirectly, by a physician, by a group of physicians or by institutions or organisations is unethical.” 

In its order DMC/14/2/2001, dated February 15, 2001, the Council observed: “Dr RSV was soliciting patients through distributing unsolicited leaflets ….  As such, Dr. RSV has not complied with MCI Code of Medical Ethics.” The council issued a warning to Dr RSV to refrain from such practices in future.