Vision Of The Indian PPR Act by Bhagwan PS

#MyVisionOfTheIndianPPRAct

Pov: Bhagwan PS

Given the persistent failure of institutions and systems to provide fair, deserved opportunities to qualified pharmacists, an exclusive legislation with clear empowerment and accountability has become essential.

The Pharmacy Practice Regulations (PPR) Act is envisioned as the legal and professional backbone for safe, effective, and ethical pharmaceutical care in India. It will authorize pharmacists as direct patient care providers, backed by professional accountability, standard operating procedures, and defined service delivery models—integrating them seamlessly into the healthcare continuum.

Under the PharmaCare Clinical Support System, the Act applies across all professional tiers—D Pharm, B Pharm, M Pharm, and PharmD—with structured, competency-based roles:

1. #DiplomaInPharmacy (D Pharm):

Frontline dispensers and community care providers. Trained in medication handling, prescription verification, OTC guidance, and basic counselling. Accountable for legal dispensing, adverse event reporting, and prescription record maintenance.

2. #BachelorOfPharmacy (B Pharm):

Advanced technical and operational support. Skilled in dosage form optimisation, supply chain integrity, pharmacovigilance, and rational drug use promotion. Authorized to conduct prescription audits, assist in therapeutic substitutions under protocol, and support primary care clinics in medication therapy management.

3. #MasterOfPharmacy (M Pharm – Pharmacy Practice / Clinical / Hospital Pharmacy):

Specialised medication experts in clinical decision support, formulary management, and interprofessional collaboration. Lead quality improvement programs, train juniors, develop evidence-based protocols, and support health technology assessment initiatives.

4. #DoctorOfPharmacy (PharmD):

Apex patient-care pharmacists integrated into clinical teams. Conduct medication histories, identify and resolve drug-related problems, perform therapeutic drug monitoring, and provide evidence-based therapy recommendations. Drive clinical governance, patient safety initiatives, and pharmacare research.

The #PPRAct’s PharmaCare model creates a continuous patient-care chain where each cadre complements the next—ensuring medication use is safe, effective, and cost-efficient. It mandates standardised documentation, ICT-enabled monitoring, and continuous professional development to maintain competence.

Ultimately, the Act positions pharmacists as indispensable members of healthcare teams—bridging the gap between prescription and patient outcomes, reducing medication errors, and improving public health metrics. It shifts pharmacy practice from a supply-driven role to a patient-centred, outcome-oriented healthcare service—securing the pharmacist’s place as a critical partner in India’s healthcare service system.

PCI to integrate pharmacists' database with Healthcare Professional Registry

Gireesh Babu, New Delhi Saturday, November 23, 2024, 08:00 Hrs  [IST]

The Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) has sought all the pharmacists who don't have the ABHA (Ayushman Bharat Health Account) number to attain a number and ensure registration with the DIGI-PHARMed profile with the ABHA number on immediate basis, as part of its efforts to integrate the pharmacists' list with the Healthcare Professional Registry (HPR). The Council is in the process of verification of all registered pharmacists on the DIGI-PHARMed portal in order to integrate pharmacists with the HPR, and asked all the pharmacists to consider certain action points in order to equip the Council for a smooth integration. "All registered pharmacists are requested to verify their DIGI-PHARMed profile with the ABHA Number on immediate basis. The said verification must be completed within the timeline of 45 days from the date of issuance of this circular," said the Council in a communication to all registered pharmacists. "Failing to this, the pharmacist's profile will be disabled for any further usage on the DIGI-PHARMed portal," it added. In case of new registration, pharmacists must ensure to verify their account with the ABHA number at the time of registration and without verification of the profile with this number will be considered as incomplete registration. If the pharmacists don't have the ABHA number, it is directed to create the ABHA number using Aadhar before initiating the process or the registration of DIGI-Pharmed portal. The Council also requested to all the pharmacy institutions as well to check that all the faculty in their institutions are having the ABHA verified profiles and notified that during the Standard Inspection Format (SIF) applications and for further reference, only ABHA verified profiled of faculty will be considered by the Council from 2025-26 academic session, it added. It also directed all pharmacists that they must ensure that the documents uploaded to the portal while registering are authentic and validated. "If the Council discovers at any stage that any documents submitted during the registration process are incorrect, the respective profile of those pharmacists will be blacklisted," said the Council. In case of any inconvenience or technical issues, the pharmacists or the institutions can share the issues over email to the Council or reach out over telephone, it added. Healthcare Professionals Registry is a comprehensive repository of registered and verified different system of medicines (modern medicine, dentistry, Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, Homoeopathy) and nurses practitioners delivering healthcare services across India.  The ABHA number will be used for the purposes of uniquely identifying persons, authenticating them, and threading their health records (only with the informed consent of the patient) across multiple systems and stakeholders The repository is part of the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM), which empowers healthcare professionals to be part of India’s digital health ecosystem through a unique healthcare professional ID. With last mile coverage, people will be able to interact with healthcare practitioners or vice versa. Healthcare professional profile visible in the ABDM ecosystem is verified and authorised to practice medicine in the country. The HPR ensures that healthcare practitioners suitably trained and qualified to practice medicine with competence and ethical conformity are allowed to register with the HPR. Pharmacists are HealthCare Professionals. Lets be worth it. Really!!!,  then why the term ' PharmaCare ' was coined. Pharmacist A HealthCare professional? If so why pharmacy course is not?. Has the Pharmacy education been got included in National Health Education Manual? ok

So many regulatory bodies and governing bodies in pharmacy education: whims of my mind

PCI(Pharmacy Council Of India) and AICTE(All India Council for technical education) are the governing bodies in the pharmacy education , keeping in mind the compounding and dispensing as well as the technical aspects involved in Pharmaceutical Engineering .

Now with the advent of Pharm D course in pharmacy, which is clinically oriented 6 years course in pharmacy and the syllabus is designed such as  first 3 years are same as B.Pharm ( compounding and dispensing oriented) and next 2 years are same as MD Pharmacology (medically and clinically oriented) and 1 year of internship in an attached (minimum- 300 beded) hospital , one may expect MCI (medical council of India) to get into the thick of the things/matters.

As it requires an affiliation with a  hospital( minimum 300 beded), to get approval for an pharmaceutical institute from PCI to conduct the course , one must expect MCI(medical council of India)(Now NMC) also to get involved as a regulatory and governing body.

PCI governs courses like : D.Pharm
                                         B.Pharm
                                        Pharm D and Pharm D(PB)

AICTE governs courses like : B.Pharm( jointly with PCI)
                                              M.Pharm

Now one must expect AICTE,PCI and MCI may jointly govern : Pharm D and Pharm D(PB)

But no, its not a rational thinking on my part. MCI (Now NMC ) will get involve only when the course is a medical one or may be when the professional doctor is dealing with a body part.
So, its fair enough that MCI(NMC) is not involved into these matters.(Really?!!!)

                                             

Pharm D course introduction and D Pharma course closure is Propaganda !!! Is Pharm D and Pharm D(PB) course is approved by UGC?

I don't understand why D. Pharma course is being removed as minimum qualification for registration to practice Pharmacy in India. 

They say due to corruption. (Propaganda)

But I have seen corruption and malpractices happening at higher education level as well. 

1)PhD and PharmD students/interns publishing their names in scientific journals for research articles in which they have not done anything and just paid asked amount to the principal researcher so that their name get added in the research article as co-authors or co-researchers for publishing in scientific journals.

2)illogical sequence of subjects taught at colleges with these newly started courses.

3)Renting of license will continue even on Pharm-D ( doctor of pharmacy) degree.

4)To make minimum qualification for a registered pharmacist to do pharmacy practice in India, Pharm-D degree rather than D.Pharm ie. to replace the state's diploma of pharmacist.

Instead of updating and upgrading the syllabus of D.Pharm, what the policy makers have done is that they have created a new course named Pharm.D/Pharmd(PB) and obvious plan is to make it the minimum qualification for a registered pharmacist to do pharmacy practice in India and produce so called Next Generation and New Age Pharmacist. It's like a RESTART button pressed on.

Why create so much confusion, why malign the integrity of Pharmacy field. They could have retained the D.Pharm course and should have made neccessary changes in the syllabus and duration of D.Pharm, so that the minimum qualification for a registered pharmacist to do pharmacy practice in India remain D.Pharm and no need to replace the state's diploma of pharmacist. 

Just imagine if M.B.B.S course is replaced by some other course which is made minimum qualification for a registered physician to do medical practice in India.

And then they call themselves Pharma Expert or Drug Expert (DRX). What a pity situation ?

Is Pharm D and Pharm D(PB) course is approved by UGC? 

Medical Science vs Pharmaceutical Science (Residential Program Year)

RPY: Residential Program Year

Pharmacy residency is education a pharmacist can pursue beyond the degree required for licensing as a pharmacist (in the United States of America: PharmD). A pharmacy residency program allows for the implementation of skill set and knowledge acquired in pharmacy school through interaction with the public either in a hospital setting or community practice.The program is done over a span of about two years after graduation from pharmacy school and licensure as a pharmacist. Pharmacy residency helps improve the resume of a pharmacist so as to increase chances of obtaining employment outside community practice. A 2022 review suggested that there is sufficient evidence that residency develops key competencies for junior pharmacists

In India, after completing a Pharm.D. (Doctor of Pharmacy) degree, students can pursue residency programs to specialize in clinical pharmacy or related fields, enhancing their expertise and career prospects. These programs, often lasting one to two years, provide advanced training in areas like clinical pharmacy practice, patient care, and drug information. 

Details about Pharm.D. and Residency in India:

• Pharm.D. as a Professional Qualification:

  The Pharm.D. is a professional doctorate recognized by the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI). It signifies expertise in pharmacy practice and allows graduates to become licensed pharmacists. 
• Residency Programs:
• Following the Pharm.D., residency programs offer specialized training in various clinical settings, such as hospitals and clinics. 
• Focus Areas:
• Residency programs can focus on areas like:

  • Clinical Pharmacy: Providing patient-centered care, medication therapy management, and drug information services. 
  • Critical Care: Managing patients in intensive care units, focusing on advanced life support and critical care protocols. 
  • Other Specializations: Opportunities may also exist in areas like oncology, cardiology, and infectious disease, depending on the specific program and institution. 
  • Career Paths:
• Residency training can lead to various career opportunities, including:

  • Clinical Pharmacist Roles: In hospitals and other healthcare settings, directly involved in patient care. 
  • Medical Affairs: Bridging the gap between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare professionals, providing scientific expertise and support. 
  • Research: Participating in clinical trials and research activities.   
  •  Duration:Residency programs typically last one to two years, depending on the specialization and institution. 
• Benefits:Residency programs offer valuable practical experience, enhance clinical skills, and improve career prospects for Pharm.D. graduates. 

Residency Medicine

Residency or postgraduate training is a stage of graduate medical education. It refers to a qualified physician (one who holds the degree of MD, DO, MBBS/MBChB), veterinarian (DVM/VMD, BVSc/BVMS), dentist (DDS or DMD), podiatrist (DPM), optometrist (OD), pharmacist (PharmD), or Medical Laboratory Scientist (Doctor of Medical Laboratory Science) who practices medicine or surgery, veterinary medicine, dentistry, optometry, podiatry, clinical pharmacy, or Clinical Laboratory Science, respectively, usually in a hospital or clinic, under the direct or indirect supervision of a senior medical clinician registered in that specialty such as an attending physician or consultant.

The term residency is named as such due to resident physicians (resident doctors) of the 19th century residing at the dormitories of the hospital in which they received training.^[1]

In many jurisdictions, successful completion of such training is a requirement in order to obtain an unrestricted license to practice medicine, and in particular a license to practice a chosen specialty. In the meantime, they practice "on" the license of their supervising physician. An individual engaged in such training may be referred to as a resident physician, house officer, registrar or trainee depending on the jurisdiction. Residency training may be followed by fellowship or sub-specialty training.^[2]

Whereas medical school teaches physicians a broad range of medical knowledge, basic clinical skills, and supervised experience practicing medicine in a variety of fields, medical residency gives in-depth training within a specific branch of medicine.

In India, medical residency, also known as postgraduate training, typically lasts for 3 years after completing the MBBS degree. It's a period of intensive clinical training in a chosen specialty, preparing doctors for independent practice. The residency program is structured with academic coursework, clinical rotations in various departments, and research components, culminating in an MD or MS degree (depending on the specialty). 

Key aspects of medical residency in India:

Duration: Generally 3 years for most specialties, but can vary. 


Eligibility: Requires completion of MBBS and passing the NEET-PG exam. 


Structure: Includes clinical rotations, academic learning (case discussions, seminars, etc.), and research. 


Focus: Hands-on clinical experience and development of practical skills under supervision. 


Outcome: Leads to an MD or MS degree in the chosen specialty and prepares doctors for independent practice. 


Supervision: Residents work under the guidance of attending physicians and consultants. 


Workload: Residents typically work long hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays. 

Is Pharm D and Pharm D(PB) course is approved by UGC?

University Grants Commission (UGC) is a statutory body under Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Government of India. It was set up in accordance to the UGC Act 1956 and is charged with coordination, determination and maintenance of standards of higher education in India. It provides recognition to universities in India, and disbursements of funds to such recognized universities and colleges. The UGC headquarters are in New Delhi, and it has six regional centres in Pune, Bhopal, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Guwahati and Bengaluru. A proposal to replace it with another new regulatory body called HECI is under consideration by the Government of India. The UGC provides doctoral scholarships to all those who clear JRF in the National Eligibility Test. On an average, each year ₹725 crore (US$86 million) is spent on doctoral and post-doctoral fellowships by the commission.

Pharmacists are Healthcare Professionals or Pharmacare Professionals?

Pharmacists are HealthCare Professionals.

Lets be worth it.

Really!!!,  then why the term ' PharmaCare ' was coined.

Pharmacist A HealthCare professional? If so why pharmacy course is not?. Has the Pharmacy education been got included in National Health Education Manual?

Someone kindled me to define and explain who is Healthcare professional? Where does the Pharmacist fit in?

Healthcare Professional.

Someone kindled me to define and explain who is Healthcare professional? Where does the Pharmacist fit in?

Not an easy question in light of Second question.

Any professional who serves the humans to safeguard his / her health and serves to mitigate the suffering and assists and supports the patient to be as comfortable as possible and treats him directly and fecilitates treatment could be called healthcare professional or Health Worker. All put together could be called a Medical Team

[This is my own extempore definition, I am subject to correction]

Now coming to second question,

Where does the Pharmacist fit in to be called Healthcare professional?

Excluding Pharm D Pharmacists, considering prevailing scenario and practice in India  the Pharmacist looks like a supporter external to the Treatment team  only to dispense what is advised. 

Unless the Pharmacists update themselves  or Course content is updated to familiarise the students on healthcare practices in preventive and curative services Pharmacists of India may not gain the Healthcare Professional tag.

#PCI, #IPA, #APTI,

POV :Bhagwan PS

Pharmacists are HealthCare Professionals.

Lets be worth it.

Really!!!,  then why the term ' PharmaCare ' was coined.

Pharmacist A HealthCare professional? If so why pharmacy course is not?. Has the Pharmacy education been got included in National Health Education Manual?

A different POV : Pharmacists have failed to impress professionally and leave professional footprints in Healthcare Sector

A different POV : Pharmacists have failed to impress professionally and leave professional footprints in Healthcare Sector . Therefore requirement of a new course like Pharm D / Pharma D (PB), which will produce professionals called Pharmacist and Pharmacotherapist. 

Is it true ? Really!!! 

Pharmacists are HealthCare Professionals.

Lets be worth it.

Really!!!,  then why the term ' PharmaCare ' was coined.

Pharmacist A HealthCare professional? If so why pharmacy course is not?. Has the Pharmacy education been got included in National Health Education Manual?

Digital Prescriptions are the solution

Handwritten prescriptions in India often pose significant risks due to their potential for misinterpretation. The diverse linguistic landscape of India, with multiple languages and scripts, adds to the complexity of deciphering these prescriptions accurately. Common issues include illegible handwriting, which can lead to confusion between drugs with similar names or incorrect dosing instructions. This is particularly problematic given the wide range of medications available and the critical importance of precise dosages.

Moreover, handwritten prescriptions sometimes lack essential information such as patient history, allergies, or specific instructions for drug administration. In a healthcare environment where pharmacists play a key role in the safe dispensing of medications, these omissions can lead to serious health risks.

The situation calls for a more robust system, possibly incorporating digital prescriptions, which can ensure clarity, accuracy, and traceability. Standardizing prescription formats and embracing electronic health records could greatly mitigate the risks associated with handwritten prescriptions, leading to safer and more effective patient care in the Indian context.

Q-commerce is here to stay, retailers must upgrade themselves’, says CEO of Retailers Association of India

Q-commerce is here to stay, retailers must upgrade themselves’, says CEO of Retailers Association of India

On September 26, Madras High Court lawyer K Narasimhan alleged in his complaint to the DPIIT that e-commerce platform Flipkart is offering discounts at product level for select sellers and creating a non-competitive environment.

By  IMRAN FAZAL| Sep 27, 2024 8:44 AM

‘Q-commerce is here to stay, retailers must upgrade themselves’, says CEO of Retailers Association of India

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has referred a complaint against quick commerce companies to the CCI for further investigation.

Multiple retail trade associations and federations have written to the Indian government, expressing concerns that the growth of Q-commerce platforms is hurting their retail businesses. The Retailers Association of India (RAI) believes that instead of complaining about the rise of Q-commerce and e-commerce platforms, retailers should focus on upgrading themselves.

It's worth noting that several FMCG companies have reported strong double-digit growth in online sales through quick-commerce. According to a RedSeer report, the Q-commerce market is expected to reach $5.5 billion by 2025. The contribution of quick-commerce platforms to the online grocery market is projected to increase from 10% to 45% in the coming years. In 2023, the gross merchandise value (GMV) of quick commerce in India reached $2.3 billion, showing a growth of over 70% compared to the previous year.

RELATED STORIES

‘Q-commerce is here to stay, retailers must upgrade themselves’, says CEO of Retailers Association of India

On the sidelines of the Retail Technology Conclave, ReTechCon 2024, Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO of the Retailers Association of India (RAI), spoke to Storyboard18 about the ongoing Q-commerce vs. Retailers conflict, which has now reached the Competition Commission of India (CCI).

Addressing the allegations of unfair trade practices by Q-commerce and e-commerce platforms, Rajagopalan stated, “When it comes to unfair trade practices and allegations by retailers, we need to wait and see. The government has a mechanism to address such issues.”

Rajagopalan added, “As far as Q-commerce platforms are concerned, they are here to stay because customers are getting something they've always wanted. At RAI, we believe in creating a level playing field for all retailers, and the Indian government has already launched the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), which will likely incorporate hyper-local and fast-commerce capabilities.”

He went on to say, “We are waiting for ONDC to improve further, and RAI is actively working with them. I believe that when your trusted local retailer can provide the product you want, whether online or offline, at the desired speed, small retailers will naturally thrive.”

Rajagopalan emphasized, “Our goal is to help small retailers improve their operations. As the Retailers Association, we don’t believe in halting new or innovative businesses, but we aim to ensure everyone has a level playing field.”

Recently, All India Consumer Products Distributors Federation (AICPDF), which claims to represent about 800,000 entities, expressed concerns over the rapid expansion of quick commerce platforms. They allege that these platforms create an uneven playing field, negatively impacting small retailers.

The AICPDF submitted a complaint to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, raising concerns about anti-competitive practices by quick commerce companies and calling for an investigation.

When asked about RAI's stance on this issue, Rajagopalan said, “The debate over whether retailers should be available both online and offline is now irrelevant. Customers are shopping both ways. Any retailer worth their salt must be available online and offline, which is why I support ONDC. You can’t do anything that goes against customer interests—it will backfire.”

He added, “The key is to enable everyone to do business for the customer. However, if someone is engaging in deep discounting or loss leadership practices that are anti-competitive, these should be addressed, and it’s the government’s responsibility to ensure such practices are stopped.”

“At RAI, we always emphasize a level playing field. No one should take undue advantage of the situation with unfair trade practices. At the same time, businesses should not expect things to be the same as they were a decade ago—COVID has changed all of us as consumers. Retailers must adopt new methods to upgrade themselves.”

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has referred a complaint against quick commerce companies to the CCI for further investigation.

Moreover, Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has urged the government to suspend the 'festival sales' events of Amazon and Flipkart, as they will further harm domestic traders through the continued use of anti-competitive practices.

On September 26, Madras High Court lawyer K Narasimhan alleged in his complaint to the DPIIT that e-commerce platform Flipkart is offering discounts at product level for select sellers and creating a non-competitive environment. The letter was sent to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhalla.

CBI raids PCI President Montu Patel in bribery probe

🔎 On July 3, 2025, the CBI raided the Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar homes of PCI President Montu Kumar Patel over alleged bribery and college approval irregularities . 

💸 An FIR alleges Dr. Patel accepted bribes to approve underqualified pharmacy colleges and bypass proper inspections . 

📺 Physical inspections were scrapped in favor of quick 8‑minute online audits in 2023–24, paving the way for potential corruption .

 🏫 Investigators found “phantom colleges” in UP, MP, Gujarat & Rajasthan approved despite dilapidated infrastructure .

 🕴️ A senior CBI officer noted that “college recognitions were being sold for money under Patel’s tenure” . 

🤐 The probe uncovered fake records, back‑dated approvals, GPSC portal manipulation, and electoral sway tactics . 🧠 The investigation follows a Supreme Court critique in May over PCI’s “arbitrary” decisions—spotlighting deep governance issues . 

🧾 The CBI will likely expand the probe to cover key states like Maharashtra, targeting systemic faults . 

⚠️ Dr. Patel, elected in April 2022, hasn’t been arrested yet; however, the evidence seized is described as “substantial” . 🏛️ With accreditation credibility at stake, experts now call for a full overhaul of PCI’s college recognition and inspection system . 

What’s your thoughts on this?

Sources : Harsh Y

#PharmacyEducation #PharmaRegulation #PharmacyCouncilOfIndia #PharmaGovernance #PharmaLeadership #PharmacyColleges #PharmaIndia #EducationStandards

Protect your Pharmacist. Save your Pharmacist.

Physicians are well protected by their own folks.

They are 'No Wrong Doers'!

Who should protect the Pharmacists in the service and in the Regulatory?

#RegulatoryOfficersAssociation

#IPA

#IHPA

#APTI

#AIOCD

#PharmacistsAssociation

Modern times require Modern Solutions

For modern times an ideal prescription should be a computerized printed form prescription so that it is legible opposite to oftenly an illegible physician's handwritten prescription. So that automization of dispensing of prescription medicines is possible by using modern technology like a computer scanner attached to pharmacy vending machines eg Script Pro Unit Dispenser.

How can we determine quality of medicine in the ocean of generic medicines? Authorised Generics, Branded Generics, Unbranded (Ordinary) Generics

How can we determine quality of medicine in the ocean of generic medicines?

Check-List for Quality of Medicine

1 Look for the make and check their website.

A. Look for the Co. Profile.

B. Look for the Co. License.

C. Look for the approved products.

2. Look for the Standards like IP mentioned, Batch No and Exp date.

3. Never forget to collect Official Cash bill.

I think thats enough at consumer level

POV : Bhagwan PS

Authorised Generics, Branded Generics, Unbranded (Ordinary) Generics

Abstract

Nowadays, there are many generic medications available in the market. Their sale is increasing day by day due to their lower cost and affordability by most of the customers. Generic medications are pharmaceuticals that are therapeutically equivalent to an original off patent drug. Both authorized generics and branded generics are the versions of generic medications. They offer lucrative business and increase competition for ordinary generics. They supply medications having quality of branded drugs at lower prices and this establishes their recognition among the masses who earlier has limited options to buy only brand-name drugs. They are cheaper than brand name drugs but costlier than ordinary generics. Authorized generics are sold only by Innovator Companies but the branded generics can be sold by both innovator companies and generic companies. They both are different from one another and have their own impact on the brand drug companies, generic companies and consumers.

Introduction

Generic drugs are the pharmaceuticals that are similar in active ingredients, dosage form, route of administration, strength, safety, quality to an already approved brand name drug. They can contain different inactive ingredients and look different than their branded counterparts. They can cost up to 95% less than the brand name drugs and can be afforded by almost all the sections of the society.¹ They are cheaper because after the expiry of the patent many manufacturers compete with each other for their generic version which results in decrease in prices.

Authorized generics

Authorised generic is a pharmaceutical product that is exactly identical to a brand name drug but marketed as a generic version without the label of brand on it. They are marketed mainly by the brand name company or other subsidiary companies with the permission of Brand Name Company.² They are sold with different labelling and packaging at lower prices than the brand name drugs. They contain the same active and inactive ingredients like their branded counterparts and are manufactured according to the specifications of innovator companies. They are recognised as therapeutic equivalents of the brand name product, so they are not included in the orange book. They can be marketed under the brand name product’s NDA by notifying the FDA. They are defined in 21CFR 314.3 as is a listed drug that has been approved under section 505(c) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and is marketed, sold, or distributed directly or indirectly to the retail class of trade with labeling, packaging (other than repackaging as the listed drug in blister packs, unit doses, or similar packaging for use in institutions), product code, labeler code, trade name, or trademark that differs from that of the listed drug. The applicant of NDA can market both the brand name product and the authorised generic at the same time. No separate NDA is required for Authorised generics. They are different from branded and unbranded generics for which ANDA is submitted. A list of authorised generic has been published by the FDA and is updated regularly.³ Authorized generics reviews are handled by FDA/CDER office of Pharmaceutical Quality. They first came to use in early 1990’s as a part of litigation settlement where the generic company got an opportunity to market authorized generics in exchange of not challenging their patent.

According to USFDA, there are almost 1200 authorised generics in the USA.⁴ Their market is growing very fast because consumers are getting these authorized generics which have the quality of branded drugs at generic prices. It is expected that the global authorized generics will observe strong growth. There are many factors which are likely to drive the authorized generics in the market: 1) patent expiration of branded drugs 2) rapid increase in the cost of branded drugs 3) health care plans by government.⁵

Classification of global authorized generics:

1.

On the basis of product type

•

Simple generics

•

Super generics

•

Others

2.

On the basis of application

•

On the basis of application

•

Cardiovascular

•

Anti-infective

•

Anti-arthritis

•

Central Nervous System

•

Respiratory

•

Others

3.

On the basis of region

•

North America

•

Asia Pacific

•

Europe

•

Latin America

•

Middle East and Africa

Hatch-Waxman Act

According to this act, 180 day market exclusivity is given to a first ANDA applicant who challenges the patent of a brand name drug (Paragraph 4 Certification). During this period no other generic company is allowed to launch their product and the applicant can use this period to get incentives to recover litigation expenses. But this act doesn’t apply to authorized generics. If an authorized generic is launched during this 180 day exclusivity period, then it may increase the competition for the independent generic firm and makes it difficult for them to recover litigation expenses.⁶ The authorized generics allow the big companies to compete with generic company’s drug during this period even without lowering the cost of their brand name-product. So, authorized generics have the potential to reduce the revenue generated by the independent generic firms during this period.

Example: In 2003, FDA had given 180 day market exclusivity to generic manufacturer Apotex for its generic version of anti-depressant drug Paxil. During this period, brand drug company Glaxo Smith Kline also launched its authorised generic for Paxil. Although sales upto $575 million were expected by Apotex during this 180 day exclusivity period but due to introduction of authorized generic, the sales were reported to be between $150 million and $200 million. So, the entry of authorized generics increased the competition for independent generic firm (Apotex) and reduced their right to claim about two-thirds to the tune of approximately $400 million.⁷

Pay for delay deals

Brand drug manufacturers adopt many life cycle management strategies to extend their market exclusivity and to delay the entry of generic drug. After the entry of generic drugs in the market, the sale of brand drug manufacturers decreases. So sometimes to tackle this problem and to alleviate the influence of generic launches on market share, many innovator companies use ‘pay for delay deals’ in which they make an agreement with generic firms to delay the entry of their generic version in the market. This pay for delay deals cost consumers as they are left with the option of buying branded drugs or authorized generics.⁸

Pros and cons of authorized generics

Pros

•

They are less costly than brand name drugs and have been produced by the same manufacturer of brand name drugs.

•

They increase competition by encouraging the sale of low price authorized generics during the 180 day exclusivity period in which generics are often sold at higher prices.

•

They also provide benefits to the brand name firms by providing them additional revenues or royalties made on sales done by their contacting partners. This additional revenue can be employed in support of pharmaceutical innovation.

•

Authorized generics also helps in smooth settlement of patent infringement suits between brand-name firms and independent genric firms. By settling patent litigation and by allowing an ANDA applicant to produce an authorized generic, the brand-name firms will not only be able to manage risk but can also provide a more stable revenue system. The generic company manufacturing an authorized generic will also be benefitted by acquiring manufacturing experience as well as 180 day exclusivity period. Now they don’t have to spend their capital on litigation with an unclear result.

•

Authorized generics launched before the expiry of patent can help the customers to gain access to lower cost versions of brand name drugs.

•

Help the innovator companies to better control sales when more generic versions come into the market.

•

Authorized generics can be launched into the market more quickly than the other generics.

•

There are many consumers who have serious allergic reactions to many drugs which limits their choice to certain branded drugs. In this case, authorized generics can be helpful to them since they have same quality of brand-name drugs but are cheaper than brand-name drugs.

Cons

•

During 180 day exclusivity period, the launch of Authorized generic can reduce the profits gained by generic manufacturers.

•

To prevent loss of revenue, many generic manufacturers make an agreement with the innovator companies that they will delay the launch of generic in return for the brand drug manufacturer’s agreement to not launch their authorized generics during exclusivity period. The consumers have to face the consequences of this agreement as they are only left with the option of buying costly drugs.

Branded generics

Mainly two types of pharmaceutical products are launched by Indian Pharmaceutical companies for the same molecule: 1.brand-name drug -Their main drug which is developed and patented by them. 2. branded generics - they are not under any patent and are sold by using a brand name instead of a chemical name. Branded generics can be developed either by a generic drug firm or by the original manufacturer and can be marketed after the patent expiry of the original drug. Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) is submitted to the regulatory body for marketing them and they should be therapeutically equivalent to the original drug for which the patent is expired.⁹ Their launch in the market is very advantageous to the brand name companies because of the following reasons: the innovator companies have production experience which can help them in producing branded generics. ii) no FDA approval is required to enter generic business as long as they are produced on the same production line used for innovator drug and less time is required in filing ANDA iii) the generic can be launched even before the patent expiration without any legal obstacles because it is marketed by the patent holder.

They are also known as value added generics and these can be either novel dosage form of an off patent drug developed by a different manufacturer or a copied molecule of an off patent drug.¹⁰ Example: Benitek A (Olmesatran in combination with Amlodipine) sold by GSK, Nifedical (nifedipine), Digitek (digoxin), etc.

Their global market is growing slowly since a large number of pharmaceutical products will experience patent expiry in the near future.

Branded generics market:

On the basis of product type

•

Value added generics: Developed by using innovative pharmaceutical technology to make them patient friendly.

•

Trade name generics: Generics sold by more than one trade name.

On the basis of application

•

Cardiovascular drugs

•

Anticancer drugs

•

Central nervous system

•

Anti-infective drugs

•

Others

On the basis of distribution channel

•

Hospital pharmacy

•

Clinics

•

Pharmacy and drug stores

On the basis of region

•

North America (US, Canada)

•

Latin America (Mexico, Brazil)

•

Western Europe (Germany, Italy, England, Spain, France etc)

•

Eastern Europe (Russia)

•

Asia Pacific (China, India, ASEAN, Australia, New Zealand, Japan)

•

Middle East Africa (GCC, South Africa, North Africa)

Unbranded generics are known by their chemical names like Amoxicillin for brand drug Trimox whereas branded generics are given brand names to promote patient recognition. Example: Cryselle (contraceptive pill). Its generic name is Norgestrel and Ethinyl estradiol. Since, it is very difficult for patients to remember long chemical names of combination products and also to increase its sale, it is sold by brand name Cryselle. These branded generics cost less as compared to brand- name drugs but are expensive than unbranded generics.¹¹

Pros and cons of branded generics

Pros

•

They are less expensive than brand name drugs and are sold as alternatives to brand name drugs.

•

There are many medications which come in combinations and it becomes very difficult to remember their generic names, so they are given a brand name which can be easily remembered.

•

They are generic drugs with brand names which attracts many consumers who are dependent on branded drugs only.

•

They provide quality assurance from well-known companies like Sandoz by Novartis, torrent etc.

Cons

•

There are some branded generics which have to be obtained from alternative suppliers, since they may not be available from key sources.

•

If a drug is prescribed by a brand name then it becomes difficult to get that specific brand of the drug since many pharmacies don’t stock all the branded generics.¹²

Difference between authorized generic and branded generic

Conclusion

Pharmaceutical companies use many life cycle management strategies either to avoid competition or to increase competition for generic manufacturers because after the expiry of patents many drugs become generics and the sale of big pharmaceutical companies decreases. Marketing of both authorized generics and branded generics is a strategy to increase competition for generic firms and to remain in the market. Both of the authorized generics and branded generics are sold at a price lower than brand- name drugs but higher as compared to unbranded generics or ordinary generics. Their market is growing rapidly and is very valuable for innovator companies and destructive for generic firms.

Declaration of conflicting interests

The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Funding

The author(s) received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

ORCID iD

Bharti Latwal https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3850-6544

References

1. Beall RF, Darrow JJ, Kesselheim AS. A method for approximating future entry of generic drugs. Value Heal 2018; 21: 1382–1389.

Mohalla Clinic , Mohalla Pharmacy , Mohalla Mediclinics, Mohalla Pharmaclinics

A Mohalla Clinic is a primary health center in India that offers free essential health services to the community: (Mohalla Mediclinics)

• Services: Free consultations, diagnostics, and medicines
• Location: Located within a kilometer of the patient's home 
• Purpose: To reduce the financial burden on low-income households by providing free healthcare and saving travel costs 
• Name: The word mohalla in Hindi means "neighborhood" or "community"

How about a Mohalla Pharmacy? (Mohalla Pharmaclinics)

Monopoly-is this the motto behind delayed subject addition issue?

Who are the stakeholders for pharmD(PB)? Who will protect our rights ?who will see our benefits are taken care of instead of thinking about others/PharmD , let us think about ourselves /PharmD(PB).Once you are happy then only you are able to keep others happy isnt it?one official association should be made there concerning the benefits of PharmD(PB) and for the protection of rights of pharmd(PB) students, who will take care of any issues related with PharmD(PB).whats ur say?Any talk related with the betterment of pharmD(PB) students should be encouraged here.Friends,my opinions are entirely my own and I can recommend them. I agree with you on some of the points u made here on this post, but my issue is that there should be some uniformity through out the country regarding the syllabus of a PharmD/PharmD(PB) curriculum.thats all i have to say.When I paid an amount as fees in my college to get some degree and study a curriculum, i just want to make it sure that i get the best out of it. My concern is only that the fundamental, basic ,core subjects like pathophysiology, hospital Pharmacy and community pharmacy must get added in the PharmD(PB) syllabus,this year before i pass out. I am not blaming entirely to organizations like PCI and universities for this.When I took admission in PharmD(PB), I was ignorant about this syllabus issue, but now today when i came to know about this, i want to rectify it and make other pharmD(PB) students like me ,aware about the same. However I guess some blame also goes to the abovesaid parent organizations, as when they are launching and approving a course, they should ensure that all is well, because i expect an organization's vision should be much broader than an individual's.It seems as if the Pharm- D (PB) syllabus has been structured by some beheaded ghost. However as they say you are responsible for your own life. I am not against PharmD regular, I wish them all the best and all the luck. But I am worried about myself and PharmD(PB) syllabus . There is nothing wrong in it!!!Now a days when it snows or rains, 5% of people go outside and play and enjoy it ; while 95% make a Facebook status about it.
Purpose is get aware and do something about the issue, just dont sit there doing nothing.
On pharmaceutical events and on Facebook also I see students worrried and talking about trival issues like putting prefix " Dr" infront of their name in internship or after getting degree.
all tactics to mislead students from real issue. It doesnt matter whether they write PharmD or doctor of pharmacy in degree, ultimately you remain a pharmacist.
My opinion:The real issue is they dont want to add the mentioned subjects in other universities except in deemed universities like JSS and Manipal, who dont depend on others to add any subjects in their syllabus. Thats why their fees is exceptionally high in comparison to other universities and colleges . For pharmD(PB) 3 yrs course ,they ask 9 lakhs as fees. And Dr B.Suresh who is South Indian himself, had his whole schooling, gradution and postgraduation in Mysore,South India, is also Principal of the JSS college as well as Chairman of JSS univ,who also happens to be the PCI president.They want to create monopoly and enjoy the exclusive status of colleges/universities with advantages of having additional subjects. The more delay it gets for years,the more these exclusive universities enjoy this benefit.Quote:You can tell monopoly is an old game because there is a luxary tax and super rich people can go to jail.Quote : Power corrupts, absolute power absolutely.

Or 

Office and functionaries are not matching in performance with Dr B Suresh's vision and dynamism. 

Pharmaclinics are different from Mediclinics

Pharmaclinics are different from Mediclinics

Now PharmD(PB) course is unavailable in Indian Government Colleges. While Pharm. D was approved for the 2022-2023 academic session with 30 admissions, the closure of the PB program was finalized for the following year.

Pharm.D (Post Baccalaureate) was unavailable in India's government colleges as of the 2021-2022 academic year. This decision was made to close the Pharm. D (PB) program starting from the 2021-2022 session, subject to the examining authority submitting a disaffiliation letter. While Pharm. D was approved for the 2022-2023 academic session with 30 admissions, the closure of the PB program was finalized for the following year. 

The main reason why Pharm. D (Post Baccalaureate) courses are often unavailable in government colleges is due to regulations and funding constraints, particularly regarding the need for extensive hospital infrastructure and faculty. Privately run colleges are often better positioned to meet these requirements due to potentially higher funding and flexibility in resource allocation.

Will Pharm-D course bringup such Pharmacovigilance Centers and Pharmaclinic Setups where FDI will be huge ?

Will Pharm-D course bringup such Pharmacovigilance Centers and Pharmaclinic Setups where FDI ( Foreign Direct Investment) will be huge ? 

Really ??? ... Not Confirmed...!!! 

#PharmacyAct1948- Replace

##PharmacyAct1948- Replace

The Pharmacy Act, 1948,  has not evolved in tandem with the dynamic growth of healthcare in India. Its structural and functional inadequacies have led to serious consequences in producing professionally sound pharmacy councils, quality educational institutions, and competent pharmacists capable of earning parity and respect alongside co-professionals.

1. Outdated Obsolete Act:

The Act lacks provisions that reflect the current needs of the pharmacy profession. It does not address modern clinical roles, inter-professional collaboration, digital health integration, or pharmaceutical care responsibilities that are now vital for pharmacists globally. The absence of contemporary revisions has rendered the Act obsolete in nurturing modern pharmacy practice.

2. Weak Regulation sans Authority:

The Act provides limited authority and accountability mechanisms for the Pharmacy Council of India and State Councils, as they lack vision, functional autonomy, and performance standards, resulting in inconsistent regulation of pharmacy education and practice. Council elections are often politicized rather than merit-driven, leading to compromised leadership.

3. Deficient Educational Standards:

The Act’s provisions for approving institutions and courses have not kept pace with advancements in pharmacy science. There is no robust mechanism to ensure teaching quality, infrastructure adequacy, or continuous curriculum revision. As a result, many institutions focus on quantity over quality, producing graduates with inadequate clinical skills and limited inter-professional exposure.

4. No mandate on Continuing Professional Development (CPD):

The Act does not mandate or promote structured CPD or re-licensing causing professional stagnation, with many pharmacists failing to upgrade their knowledge or adapt to changing healthcare paradigms.

5. Limited Scope for Practice. There is no body to, Regulate and issue license for Clinical Practice.

The Act fails to recognize or  to facilitate expanded pharmacy roles such as clinical pharmacy, Specialized therapy management,  emergency response preparedness etc.This restricts pharmacists and limits their recognition by other healthcare professionals.

6. Poor Integration with National Health Policy:

Pharmacy as a profession remains sidelined in policy discourse due to the Act’s failure to align pharmacy practice with national health goals. Pharmacists are underutilized in public health programs, disease prevention, and primary healthcare delivery.

To restore professional credibility and produce pharmacists who are clinically competent, ethically grounded, and respected by co-professionals, the Pharmacy Act requires comprehensive overhaul. It must be modernized to enforce strict educational standards, support CPD, empower councils, and formally recognize pharmacists as vital healthcare providers. Without these reforms, the Act remains a missed opportunity in strengthening India’s healthcare workforce.

#MoHFw, #PMOIndia, #PCI

Pov: Bhagwan P. S

#BlunderHasHappened - Time to wakeup

#BlunderHasHappened - Time to wakeup 

The Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), as the statutory body governing pharmacy education and practice in India, introduced the Pharm.D program in 2008 with the vision of integrating pharmacists into clinical settings as vital members of the healthcare team. However, despite its ambitious goals, the PCI bears partial responsibility for the lack of opportunities faced by Pharm.D graduates today.

Where PCI went wrong:

1. Inadequate Stakeholder Engagement:

The program was introduced without a strong framework involving collaboration with major healthcare stakeholders such as the Medical Council of India (now NMC), hospitals, healthcare policy makers, and employers. This resulted in a lack of formal recognition of Pharm.D professionals in clinical roles within hospitals.

2. Poor Integration with Healthcare System:

PCI failed to ensure the creation of structured job roles for Pharm.D graduates in both public and private healthcare systems. Unlike MBBS or BDS programs, there was no mandate or roadmap to integrate Pharm.Ds into government hospitals or primary health centers.

3. Insufficient Policy Advocacy:

PCI did not effectively lobby for Pharm.D graduates to be recognized as Clinical Pharmacists or Pharmacotherapy Specialists under national health schemes or in state public health systems. Consequently, there are limited government posts specifically designed for Pharm.D graduates.

4. Lack of Outcome-Based Evaluation:

PCI has not periodically assessed the program outcomes in terms of employment, career progression, or role recognition of Pharm.D graduates. This has allowed gaps to widen between academic training and real-world practice.

5. Overexpansion Without Planning:

Many colleges were allowed to start Pharm.D programs without adequate hospital tie-ups or infrastructure, leading to variable quality of training and overproduction of graduates without matching demand in the healthcare sector.

6. No Defined Scope of Practice:

PCI has not succeeded in securing a legal and professional scope of practice for Pharm.D graduates that is distinct from other pharmacy qualifications, leading to confusion and underutilization of their clinical skills.

While PCI’s intention was commendable, its execution lacked foresight, planning, and collaboration. 

The responsibility now lies with PCI to rectify this through policy advocacy, defining roles for Pharm.D graduates, ensuring integration with national health systems, and creating a viable career pathway to prevent further professional disillusionment and brain drain.

Government of India should intervene, dismiss the Deadwood's and appoint an administrator of IAS  cadre to save the Profession in public interest.

#PMO, #HFW

Pov: Bhagwan P. S

Pharmacy - beyond the counter - Patient centric.

Pharmacy - beyond the counter - Patient centric.

Pharmacy, once seen as a profession behind the counter or within the factory walls, is today poised for a transformation. 

The pharmacist is evolving into a critical member of the healthcare team, contributing to patient care, therapy optimization, public health, and even disaster management. 

Yet, despite this exciting evolution, our pharmacy colleges are struggling to match pace. The ailments are deep-rooted, but curable—with vision, reform, and a renewed commitment to quality.

At the heart of the issue lies the quality of student admissions. For many, pharmacy is not a first-choice profession. It is often a fallback, filled through vacant seats rather than merit-based enthusiasm. This has diluted the academic ecosystem, resulting in a large number of graduates who lack the passion or preparedness for a demanding healthcare role. 

Equally urgent is the need for high-caliber faculty. A great teacher can ignite a lifelong spark, but many colleges lack such mentors.

 Faculty development programs have to be more effective and impact ful,  salaries are uncompetitive, and industry or clinical exposure is minimal. Institutions must invest on faculty, their training, research engagement, and continuous professional development, aligning educators with global standards. Strong mentors alone can produce , strong professionals.

The absence of a central body like a National Pharmacy Council (NPC) to replace weak fragile PCI to standardize education, licensure, and practice scope adds to the vows of the colleges and education in general.  

An empowered NPC can uplift the profession by enforcing quality norms in admissions, curriculum design, institutional infrastructure, faculty competency, and student assessment—just as the NMC does for medicine or INC for nursing.

Exposure of Students graduate with  to real-world challenges. Internships, interdisciplinary learning, clinical postings, and innovation labs should be made compulsory and meaningful.

When the Pharmacists come out with inbuilt professional quality the demand for their service increases.

The time to heal is now—and with the right reforms, pharmacy education can not only recover but qualitatively support healthcare service.

Pov: Bhagwan P. S

POV :

Earlier there was MCI equivalent to PCI.

Then MCI got changed to NMC.

Now he is talking about bringing up NPC equivalent to NMC. 

What a mess? 

PCI & MCI now NMC.

Whats the job of the Representative from MCI now NMC in PCI?

Do we have PCI Representative in MCI now NMC?

Indian Health System practices untouchability towards Pharma Professionals!

Looks PCI failed to gel and coordinate with MCI now NMC in professional matters.

When PCI doesn't gel, how can the Pharmacists gel with Healthcare professionally.

This appears to be the root cause for B, M Pharm and Pharm Ds being stranded with no opportunity to serve in Healthcare.

Please correct me if I am wrong.

Please narrate your experience, observation, views in the comment box.

Reactions like 👍 mean nothing.

POV: Bhagwan P. S

#PharmacyCouncilOfIndia – A Body with wasted muscle! 😢

#PharmacyCouncilOfIndia – A Body with wasted muscle! 😢

PCI governs but fails to enforce!

The Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), established under the Pharmacy Act, 1948, was meant to uphold the standards of pharmacy education and practice in India. 

But over the decades, while pharmacy evolved globally into a clinical and patient-centric profession, PCI has largely remained a regulator with outdated tools, limited vision and action short of reach.

At the heart of the problem is the Pharmacy Act itself — a law that has not kept pace with modern healthcare demands. It offers regulatory control but not reformative power. There is no legal push for advanced clinical training, integration into hospital systems, or patient care competencies. PCI continues to regulate based on a mid-20th-century model while the 21st-century healthcare system demands innovation.

Equally concerning is the composition of PCI’s council. Though it includes representatives from states, universities, and other bodies, the quality and commitment of members vary widely. Many are driven by institutional or political loyalties and it is a decoration for majority rather than professional advancement. As a result, council meetings become administrative rituals to clear 100+agenda, not platforms for national vision.

The approval and inspection process — central to PCI’s role — is also deeply flawed. Inspections often focus on paperwork over substance. Colleges with poor infrastructure, unqualified faculty, and negligible hospital exposure continue to get approvals.

 Allegations of bias and irregularities have further eroded trust in the system.

Meanwhile, thousands of pharmacy graduates face unemployment or underutilization due to diluted quality, no direction, outdate Curricula . Clinical exposure is minimal, in total degree without skill

PCI has not done enough to push for curriculum reform, standardized hospital training, or alignment with national health priorities.

Instead of being a think-tank and  thought leader, PCI often functions as a passive regulator. 

It has failed to advocate strongly for pharmacy graduates roles in public health, disaster preparedness, or clinical care. It has missed collaborating opportunities with AICTE, NMC, and global pharmacy bodies. Even in times of health crises, the pharmacist’s potential role remains un-recognized  underutilized — PCI has done little to break.

Above all, PCI lacks a National vision and Professional mission. It governs but does not lead. It regulates but does not inspire.

If pharmacy is to rise as a pillar of India’s healthcare system, PCI must transform — from a bureaucratic mode to a reformist force. This means amending the Act, raising the quality of its members, enforcing outcome-based education, and embedding pharmacy into the core of public health systems.

Until then, the profession will remain full of potential on paper and PCI, a symbol of how not to use it.!!!

Hope the message is  clear.. 👍

Lets debate...

Pov: Bhagwan P. s

Clinical Subjects like Pathophysiology and Clinical Pharmacokinetics require qualified faculty like M. D Pharmacologists for teaching in these universities and colleges with Pharm D and Pharm D (PB) courses in its initial stages.

Clinical Subjects like Pathophysiology and Clinical Pharmacokinetics require qualified faculty like M. D Pharmacologists for teaching in these universities and colleges with Pharm D and Pharm D (PB) courses in its initial stages.

Projects types in higher education

Either a project work requiring technology use like smart mobile camera , scanner, computer etc. 

Or a project work without much of technology use. Only manual operated. 

Leveraging DigiPharmed for Pharmacy Education and Practice

A Proposal to the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI): 

Leveraging DigiPharmed for Pharmacy Education and Practice

To: The Pharmacy Council of India (PCI)

Subject: Adoption of Digital Technologies under the Concept of "DigiPharmed"

Respected Members of the Pharmacy Council of India,

With the rapid evolution of digital healthcare globally, the integration of digital technologies into pharmacy education and practice is crucial. The concept of DigiPharmed—the use of digital innovations in pharmacy—offers a pathway to transform pharmacy services and elevate the role of pharmacists in India's healthcare system.

Below are the proposed suggestions for PCI to adopt and implement DigiPharmed initiatives:

1. #integrationOfDigitalHealth - IntoPharmacy Education

Incorporate health informatics and digital health technologies into the pharmacy curriculum (e.g., AI, machine learning, blockchain, telepharmacy, and digital therapeutics).

1. #DevelopVirtualLabsAndSimulation - Based training platforms for practical skill enhancement.

Introduce specialized certifications in areas like telepharmacy operations, pharmacovigilance through digital platforms, and digital therapeutics.

2. Promotion of Telepharmacy and Remote Healthcare Services

a. Establish guidelines for ethical telepharmacy practices, ensuring compliance with national laws like the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.

b. Create a framework for training pharmacists in teleconsultation, remote medication management, and e-prescriptions.

c. Collaborate with state health departments to implement telepharmacy services in rural and underserved areas.

3.#AlignmentWithNationalDigitalHealthMission (NDHM)

a. Actively participate in the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) by:

b. Integrating pharmacists into electronic health record (EHR) systems.

c. Training pharmacy professionals to use digital prescription platforms and healthcare interoperability tools.

4.#DigitalEnabledPharmacovigilance

a. Promote the use of digital tools like the PvPI (Pharmacovigilance Programme of India) mobile app for real-time adverse drug reaction reporting.

b. Encourage automation in pharmacovigilance systems to ensure safety and efficiency

5. #CapacityBuilding - Under Continuous Education

a. Conduct national-level workshops and webinars to train pharmacists in digital healthcare tools and emerging technologies.

b.  Collaborate with technology partners to provide access to the latest innovations in pharmacy practice.

6. #AddressThe Challenges - in Creating Opportunities

a. Position pharmacists as key contributors in India’s digital healthcare transformation.

b. Facilitate partnerships with global and national tech companies to introduce cutting-edge solutions in pharmacy practice.

At the outset,  By adopting the concept of #DigiPharmed and #PharmacarePCI can revolutionize pharmacy education and practice, enhancing accessibility, efficiency, and healthcare outcomes across India. This initiative will also position India as a global leader in digital pharmacy innovations.

I urge PCI to consider these suggestions and take a proactive role in implementing DigiPharmed strategies for the future of pharmacy profession in India.

With sincere regards,

Bhagavan P. S.

Retd. Dy Dir. Pharmacy

H&FWS, Karnstaka.

Frmr. Registrar, KSPC

Bengaluru.

#PCI

#APTI