Unnecessary consultations should be avoided, as per section 3.1 of the Indian Medical Council(Professional conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002.

However, in case of a serious illness or if there is a doubt or a difficult situation, the physician can requesta consultation. But, such a consultation should be justifiable and in the interest of the patient rather thanfor any other consideration (Section 3.1.1). Consulting pathologists/radiologists or asking for anydiagnostic investigation should be done judiciously and not routinely (Section 3.1.2).

In any consultation, the benefit to the patient is of utmost importance (Section 3.2).