Muslim docs asked to remove veil

LONDON: Muslim women doctors in the UK must remove their face veil while treating patients, according to new guidelines issued by the General Medical Council, which regulates the country’s medical profession.

The GMC said doctors should be prepared to set aside personal and cultural preferences so that they don’t compromise on patient care.

The Council, in its new document “Personal Beliefs and Medical Practice” said doctors must be open about procedures they object to because of their beliefs, such as abortion. “Some patients, for example, may find that a face veil worn by their doctor presents an obstacle to effective communication and the development of trust.”

Women could wear the hijab, which covers the head, but not the face. The Muslim Council of Great Britain supported the GMC guidelines, saying that female Muslim doctors have a responsibility to put patient care first.