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? 

**Yes, but with an important distinction between who approves the course versus who awards/recognizes the degree.**

### Key Regulatory Framework

 * **Primary Approval Body — Pharmacy Council of India (PCI):**

   The **Pharm.D** (6-year regular) and **Pharm.D (Post-Baccalaureate)** (3-year program for B.Pharm graduates) are statutory courses introduced and regulated under the **Pharm.D Regulations 2008** by the **Pharmacy Council of India (PCI)**. PCI sets the curriculum, clinical training standards, and institution-approval criteria.

 * **Role of the University Grants Commission (UGC):**

   UGC recognizes PCI as the official statutory professional council governing pharmacy education in India.

   * UGC approves universities (Central, State, Private, or Deemed-to-be Universities) to confer degrees under Section 22 of the UGC Act.

   * When a UGC-recognized university offers a Pharm.D / Pharm.D (PB) program through an institution approved by the PCI, the degree is fully valid and recognized by UGC.

### Summary Checklist for Students

Before enrolling in either program, ensure:

 1. **PCI Approval:** The specific college or department must have an active approval letter from PCI to run the Pharm.D or Pharm.D (PB) course.

 2. **UGC Recognition:** The university granting the final degree certificate must be recognized by UGC.

UGC doesn't approve courses,but it approve universities

That is **partially true**, but with some very important technical distinctions.

Here is how the University Grants Commission (UGC) approval system actually works in India:

## 1. What the UGC Approves: Universities

The UGC primarily recognizes and grants approval to **institutions** (Central, State, Deemed, and Private Universities) under the UGC Act, 1956.

 * Once a university is established by law and recognized under **Section 2(f)** (and **12(B)** for grants), it gets the statutory power to grant degrees.

## 2. How Courses Are Handled by the UGC

While the UGC doesn't inspect or approve every traditional syllabus (like a regular B.A., B.Sc., or B.Com), it governs courses in three main ways:

 * **Specified Degree Titles:** Under **Section 22** of the UGC Act, universities can only grant degrees with nomenclature/names explicitly specified and published by the UGC (e.g., B.A., B.Tech, M.A.). If a university invents an unapproved degree title (like "Bachelor of Corporate Knowledge"), that degree is invalid.

 * **Distance & Online Learning (ODL):** For Online or Distance Education, the UGC **does approve specific courses program-by-program** through the Distance Education Bureau (DEB).

 * **Professional / Technical Courses:** Technical, medical, law, and teaching courses require approval from their respective **Statutory Councils** (not UGC directly):

   * **Engineering / Management:** AICTE

   * **Law:** Bar Council of India (BCI)

   * **Medicine:** National Medical Commission (NMC)

   * **Teacher Training:** NCTE

   * **Pharmacy:** Pharmacy Council of India (PCI)

> **Summary:** A UGC-recognized university has the autonomy to run regular on-campus courses, but the **degree title** must be recognized by the UGC, professional courses must be cleared by **statutory bodies**, and online/distance courses need **explicit UGC-DEB course approval**.

> 

Pharmacy - beyond the counter - Patient centric. NMC-NPC-MCI-PCI confusion

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

Always double-check your medication classifications—especially when names sound similar—to avoid taking the wrong treatment.

🖤 कुछ जानकारी दे रहा हूँ, आप जो दवाएँ खाते है या डॉक्टर लिखता है वह किसलिये दे रहा है.....

क्योंकि आजकल अगर जरूरत 1 दवा की है, डॉक्टर 4 साथ में देगा क्योंकि कम्पनी विदेश का टूर जो देती है ....

😊....आज इतना सीख लें...

❤️......प्रत्येक अंग्रेजी दवा के अंत मे एक शब्द होता है जिससे जान सकते है वह दवा किस काम आएगी.....😊

CAIN.........❤️❤️

Xylocaine

Benzocaine

Amylocaine

Lidocaine

ये एक लोकल इनेस्थेटिक है, अर्थात ये दवाईया किसी अंग को सुन्न करने के लिए दी जाती है

MYCIN........❤️❤️

Azithromycin

Erythromycin

Neomycin

Strptomycin

ये एंटीबायोटिक है अर्थात इंफेक्शन के लिए दी जाती है

OLOL.........❤️❤️

Metaprolol

Atenolol

Esmolol

Bisoprolol

ये बीटा ब्लॉकर्स होते है अर्थात इनका प्रयोग हाइपरटेंशन,  या हार्ट अटैक /HIGH BP में करते है

MIDE  & ZIDE.........❤️❤️

Furosemide

Bumetanide

Benzthiazide

Chlorothiazide

ये डाइयुरेटिक्स है अर्थात यूरीन को बढ़ाती है, शरीर मे सूजन होती है या BP ज्यादा होता है उन्हें देते है

VIR........❤️❤️

Acyclovir

Ritonavir

Indinavir

ये एन्टीवायरल है अर्थात वायरस के इंफेक्शन में प्रयोग करते है

PAM........❤️❤️

Diazepam

Lorazepam

ये एंटीएंजाइटी है अर्थात घबराहट बेचैनी नींद न आने में दी जाती है

STATIN......❤️❤️

Atorvastatin

Simvastatin

Lovastatin

इसका प्रयोग एंटी हायपर लिपिडेमिक्स में होता है अर्थात   जिनका कोलस्ट्रॉल बढ़ जाता है उन्हें देते है

SONE........❤️❤️

Betamethasone

Cortisone

Dexamethasone 

ये स्टेरॉइड है अर्थात सूजन को दूर करने के लिए

AZOLE.........❤️❤️

Ketoconazole

Fluconazole

Econazole

Miconazole

एंटीफंगल है अर्थात फंगल इंफकेशन में दी जाती है

TIDINE.........❤️❤️

Ranitidine

Cimetidine

Famotidine

Roxatidine

ये H2 रिसेप्टर ब्लोकर है अर्थात पेट मे एसिड को कम करती है, पेप्टिक अल्सर में प्रयोग होता है

SETRON.........❤️❤️

Ondasetron

Grenisetron

Dolosetron

5HT3 एनटागोनिस्ट होती है अर्थात उल्टी, चक्कर मे दी जाती है

OFLOXACIN.......❤️❤️

Ciprofloxacin

Norfloxacin

Levofloxcin

ये एंटीबैक्टीरियल हैं

NIDAZOLE.........❤️❤️

Metronidazole

Ornidazole

Tinidazole

ये एन्टीअमेबिक हैं अर्थात दर्द के साथ दस्त में दी जाती है।

TRIPTAN..........❤️❤️

Sumatriptan

Rizatriptan

Naratripton

5HT एगोनिस्ट होती है अर्थात माइग्रेन में दी जाती है।

PROFEN.........❤️❤️

Ibuprofen

Ketoprofen

Flurbiprofen

ये नॉन स्ट्रोइडल एंटी इन्फ्लामेट्री ड्रग्स होती है अर्थात सूजन, बुखार, दर्द आदि में दिया जाता है।

PRAZOLE........❤️❤️

Pantoprazole

Omeprazole

Esomeprazole

Rabeprazole

ये प्रोटोन पम्प इन्हेबिटर है अर्थात पेट मे एसिड कम करती है और पेट मे हाइड्रोजन पोटेशियम पम्प को बन्द कर देती ह, गेस्ट्रो सम्बन्धी पेप्टिक अल्सर में प्रयोग करते हैं।

GLIPTIN........❤️❤️

Sitagliptin

Vildagliptin

Alogiptin

Linagliptin

DDP 4 इन्हेबिटर हैं, अर्थात डाइबिटीज में प्रयोग होता है ! 

😊 🙏

However,

Not always true..... 

Aripiprazole (often sold under the brand name Abilify) is an atypical antipsychotic medication primarily used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder.It is frequently confused with Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) because it shares the same "-prazole" suffix, but the two are completely different:Aripiprazole: An antipsychotic that stabilizes dopamine and serotonin systems in the brain.PPIs (e.g., Omeprazole, Pantoprazole): Acid-reducing medications used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers.

Always double-check your medication classifications—especially when names sound similar—to avoid taking the wrong treatment. You can verify medication profiles and interactions using the Drugs.com Drug Interactions Checker or the Mayo Clinic Drugs and Supplements database.

Pharmacy Malpractice Law

Pharmacy malpractice law governs the legal liability of pharmacists and pharmacies for medication errors. Key claims include dispensing the wrong drug or dose, missing dangerous interactions, and failing to provide proper patient counseling. In India, these errors are typically pursued as "deficiency in service" under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 in state or district consumer commissions. 

The elements required to prove a pharmacy malpractice claim include:

• Duty: The pharmacist owed a legal duty of care to the patient.
• Breach: The pharmacist fell below the accepted standard of practice (e.g., misreading a prescription).
• Causation: The specific medication error was the direct cause of the patient's injury or worsening condition.
• Damages: There must be measurable harm, such as additional medical expenses, lost wages, or severe physical and emotional suffering.

In addition to consumer courts, cases can fall under criminal law for severe, reckless negligence (e.g., Section 304A of the Indian Penal Code, causing death by negligence). Pharmacies can also be disciplined by regulatory bodies like the Pharmacy Council of India under the Pharmacy Act, 1948 for employing unregistered staff or failing safety protocols. 

Victims of pharmacy errors should preserve the physical medication, the original packaging, the prescription slip, and any receipts, as these act as critical evidence. 

**Pharmacy malpractice law** is a specialized subset of professional negligence law. It applies when a licensed pharmacist or pharmacy staff member fails to meet the accepted medical standard of care, directly causing injury, illness, or death to a patient.

While it falls under the broader umbrella of medical malpractice, pharmacy cases are unique because a pharmacist’s legal duties are primarily **technical and advisory** rather than diagnostic.

## 1. The 4 Elements of a Legal Claim

To successfully win a pharmacy malpractice lawsuit, a plaintiff (the patient) must legally prove four specific elements:

 * **Duty:** A formal pharmacist-patient relationship existed. This is automatically established the moment a pharmacy accepts a prescription to be filled or provides clinical counseling.

 * **Breach of Duty:** The pharmacist acted negligently or failed to meet the standard of care that a reasonably competent pharmacist would have provided under the same circumstances.

 * **Causation:** The pharmacist's specific error was the direct or "proximate" cause of the patient’s harm. (This is often heavily contested if the patient has complex pre-existing health conditions).

 * **Damages:** The patient suffered actual, quantifiable harm—such as severe illness, medical bills, lost wages, or prolonged pain and suffering.

## 2. Most Common Malpractice Allegations

According to professional liability data, the overwhelming majority of claims stem from just a handful of recurring errors:

| Allegation | Description | Approximate % of Claims |

|---|---|---|

| **Wrong Drug** | Dispensing an entirely incorrect medication, often due to "look-alike, sound-alike" drug names (e.g., mixing up *Clonidine* and *Clonazepam*). | **~41.7%** |

| **Wrong Dose / Strength** | Providing the right drug but in an incorrect mechanical dosage or mathematical calculation, which can lead to toxicity or under-medication. | **~21.9%** |

| **Wrong Patient** | Handing a filled prescription to the wrong person due to a mix-up at the checkout counter. | **~7.5%** |

| **Failure to Consult / Screen** | Overriding computer alerts regarding severe drug-to-drug interactions, ignoring documented allergies, or failing to call the doctor to clarify a glaring error. | **~5.3%** |

## 3. Key Legal Standards and Defenses

### The "Obvious Error" Standard

In many jurisdictions, pharmacists are not automatically blamed for a doctor's poor diagnostic judgment. However, they are legally required to intercept **obvious or patent errors**. If a doctor prescribes a lethal dosage or a medication that violently clashes with the patient's existing profile, the pharmacist has a legal "duty to warn" and clarify.

### The Role of Expert Testimony

Because pharmacology involves highly technical data outside the knowledge of an average jury, almost all jurisdictions require **expert testimony**. Licensed pharmacists must be brought into court to testify about what the local "standard of care" actually dictates.

### Statute of Limitations

Malpractice claims are time-sensitive. Depending on the state or region, a patient typically has **2 to 3 years** from the date the error occurred (or from the date the injury was reasonably discovered) to file a lawsuit.

> **A Note on Compounding Pharmacies:** Pharmacies that manually mix custom medications (compounding) face much stricter federal oversight under the FDA. Because of the high risk of contamination or mixing errors, malpractice claims involving compounding pharmacies carry significantly higher average financial settlements.

Pharmacy malpractice law is the area of law that holds pharmacists, pharmacies, and other pharmacy professionals legally responsible when they fail to meet the accepted standard of care and a patient is harmed as a result.

Common examples of pharmacy malpractice include:

• Dispensing the wrong medication.
• Giving the wrong dosage or strength.
• Mislabeling prescription instructions.
• Failing to check for dangerous drug interactions or allergies when required.
• Dispensing medication to the wrong patient.
• Failing to counsel patients when legally required.

To succeed in a pharmacy malpractice claim, a patient generally must prove:

1. The pharmacist owed them a duty of care.
2. The pharmacist breached the accepted standard of care.
3. The breach directly caused the patient's injury.
4. The patient suffered damages (such as medical expenses, lost income, or pain and suffering).

The specific rules and remedies vary by country and jurisdiction.

Pharmacy malpractice law is the area of law that deals with harm caused when a pharmacist or pharmacy fails to provide the accepted standard of professional care, resulting in injury to a patient. Like other forms of professional negligence, a successful claim generally requires proving:

1. Duty of care – The pharmacist owed a professional duty to the patient.
2. Breach of duty – The pharmacist failed to meet the accepted standard of care.
3. Causation – The breach directly caused the patient's injury.
4. Damages – The patient suffered actual harm, such as illness, disability, additional medical expenses, or other losses.

Common examples of pharmacy malpractice include:

• Dispensing the wrong medication.
• Dispensing the wrong dose or incorrect instructions.
• Failing to identify harmful drug interactions or allergies.
• Labeling errors.
• Failing to properly counsel patients when required.

In India, pharmacists are regulated under the Pharmacy Act, 1948, and negligent conduct may also lead to civil liability, disciplinary action by pharmacy authorities, or, in serious cases, criminal liability depending on the circumstances.

The main difference between medical and pharmacy symbols

The main difference between medical and pharmacy symbols comes down to **what the snake is wrapping itself around**, along with a few ancient tools used to mix medicine.

While they all look similar because they root back to Greek mythology and ancient healing, each field has its own distinct emblems.

## 1. Medical Symbols: The Rods and Staffs

Medical symbols focus heavily on a central staff, representing authority, healing, and the traveling physician.

### The Rod of Asclepius (The True Medical Symbol)

 * **What it looks like:** A single snake wrapped around a simple, unadorned wooden staff.

 * **The Meaning:** Asclepius was the Greek god of healing and medicine. The shedding of the snake's skin symbolizes renewal and healing. This is the official symbol used by the World Health Organization (WHO) and medical associations worldwide.

### The Caduceus (The Commonly Mistaken Symbol)

 * **What it looks like:** A staff with **two** snakes twisting around it, topped with a pair of wings.

 * **The Meaning:** This is actually the staff of Hermes, the messenger god. It traditionally symbolizes commerce, trade, and eloquence—**not medicine**.

 * **The Mix-up:** In 1902, the US Army Medical Corps mistakenly adopted the Caduceus as their symbol. Because of this administrative blunder, it is frequently used across North America on commercial healthcare websites and clinics, even though it technically represents trade rather than healing.

## 2. Pharmacy Symbols: Bowls, Mortars, and Prescriptions

Pharmacy symbols shift the focus away from the doctor's staff and onto the **preparation and containment of medicine**.

### The Bowl of Hygieia

 * **What it looks like:** A snake wrapping around or dipping into a chalice or wine bowl.

 * **The Meaning:** Hygieia was the daughter of Asclepius and the goddess of health and cleanliness (where we get the word "hygiene"). Instead of holding a staff, she held a bowl used to mix medicinal potions, and the snake drank from it to symbolize controlling the venom into a remedy. This is the international symbol for pharmacy.

### The Mortar and Pestle

 * **What it looks like:** A heavy mixing bowl (mortar) with a blunt grinding tool (pestle).

 * **The Meaning:** This represents the literal compounding and crushing of raw herbs, chemical ingredients, and materials to create custom medications. It is heavily used by compounding pharmacies today.

### The Rx Symbol

 * **What it looks like:** The capital letter "R" with a slash through its leg.

 * **The Meaning:** It originates from the Latin word ***recipe***, which means "take this." Historically, it was an instruction to the pharmacist listing the ingredients they needed to pull to prepare a medication.

## Quick Comparison Summary

| Attribute | Medical Symbol (Asclepius) | Pharmacy Symbol (Hygieia / Mortar) |

|---|---|---|

| **Primary Focus** | The Physician / Act of Healing | The Remedy / Preparing Medication |

| **Key Visual** | A central vertical **Staff** | A **Bowl** or compounding tools |

| **Number of Snakes** | One (Two if using the mistaken Caduceus) | One |

| **Core Message** | Restoring health and vitality | Dispensing and compounding treatment |

Medicine symbols represent the art of healing and the medical profession, usually featuring a staff with a single serpent (Rod of Asclepius). Pharmacy symbols represent medication preparation and dispensing, primarily using the Bowl of Hygieia (a snake coiled around a chalice) or a mortar and pestle. 

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Medicine Symbol (Rod of Asclepius)	Pharmacy Symbol (Bowl of Hygieia)
Primary Icon	A single serpent coiled around a rough wooden staff or rod.	A serpent feeding from or coiled around a chalice or cup.
Meaning	Healing, medicine, and the medical profession.	Pharmacy, remedies, and the preparation of medications.
Historical Origin	Ancient Greek mythology; Asclepius was the Greek god of healing and medicine.	Associated with Hygieia, the Greek goddess of health and the daughter of Asclepius.

The "RX" Symbol

You will also commonly see ℞ associated with pharmacies. This abbreviation stands for the Latin word recipe, meaning "to take." It has historically been used to direct the pharmacist to take specific ingredients to prepare a medication for a patient. 

Common Misconceptions

Both fields are occasionally associated with the Caduceus (a winged staff with two snakes). However, the Caduceus represents Hermes, the god of commerce, trade, and negotiation. While it is widely and mistakenly used by hospitals and clinics due to historical errors, it is not the accurate historical symbol for either field

Another letter in the scheme of things- further

To DATE: 27/03/2012
PLACE:RAICHUR
The Registrar,
Rajiv Gandhi University Of Health Sciences,Karnataka
Bangalore,
Subject:Immediate attention for correction & inclusion of subjects for pharm D (PB) course-reg
Through: The Principal, N.E.T Pharmacy College Raichur.
Respected Sir,
We are the Pharm-D(Post Baccalautreate) students(2010-2013) pursuing the course from NET Pharmacy College Raichur under RGUHS.
According to Pharm-D (Post Baccalaureate) regulations 2008 mentioned in RAJIV GANDHI UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES, Karnataka, the scheme of Examination for Pharm-D(Post Baccalaureate) Course, given in page no. 4,the subject Hospital and Community pharmacy(serial no.1.5) is already mentioned to be included in the First Year(Fourth year of Pharm-D course). But instead the above subject, Biopharmaceutics and pharmacokinetics(serial no. 4.5) has been included, as given in table (First year Post baccalaureate-Fourth year of Pharm-D course) on page no.2.
This is to inform you that, at our B.Pharm syllabus under various Universities we didn’t had subjects of Hospital & Community Pharmacy, and Pathophysiology. These subjects are the basic and fundamental subjects for a Pharm-D(PB) course, upon which other subjects are based e.g.: Pharmacotherapeutics I,II,and III are related with Pathophysiology. Though these subjects are included in the Pharm D(6yr-regular) university syllabus in 2nd year, where as these are not included in Pharm D(PB) RGUHS syllabus. Sir, this is to bring to your notice that these above subjects are very important for an aspirant clinical pharmacist to understand the basics and are the essence of the Pharm D(PB) course.
All of us students of Pharm D(PB) also had not studied either of these two subjects or one or none in our B.Pharm syllabus under our respective universities.
Sir, without having these 2 basic clinically oriented subjects (1.Hospital&Community Pharmacy) and 2. Pathophysiology our course wont be valid and valued.
We request you to kindly consider our appeal and make suitable amendments in the existing Pharm.D(PB) Syllabus by adding these 2 basic subjects, effective from this academic year, so that we all Pharm D(PB) students may cover all the required core subjects under our syllabus which will enable us to be at par with Pharm D(6yr-regular) students who already have these subjects in their syllabus. This may also enable us to be eligible for appearing in competitive exams at international level. Hence we shall get better jobs and opportunities globally.
We hope our request will be considered favorably and implemented at the earliest.
Thanking You,
Yours Sincerely,
Pharm D(Post Baccalaureate) students,
2010-13 batch
N.E.T PC Raichur.
ENCLOSURES: 1. List of Pharm D(PB) students of N.E.T Pharmacy College, who completed B.Pharm . from various universities (including RGUHS) with subjects not studied in their B.Pharm.
2. The remarks of our faculty on addition of subjects in Pharm D(PB) syllabus. . 3. FPGEC bulletin 2011. Copy to: 1. Dean, Faculty Of Pharmacy, RGUHS, Bangalore. . 2. Chairman; BOS, Faculty Of , RGUHS, Bangalore.

The phrase "physician (or surgeon) is the captain of the ship" refers to the "Captain of the Ship" doctrine, an older principle in medical malpractice law.

The phrase "physician (or surgeon) is the captain of the ship" refers to the "Captain of the Ship" doctrine, an older principle in medical malpractice law. It likens the lead physician in an operating room to a ship captain, holding them legally responsible for the negligence of everyone else on the medical team. 

How the Doctrine Works

• Vicarious Liability: Under this rule, a surgeon is deemed to have absolute authority and control over the operating or delivery room.
• Borrowed Servants: Even if the surgical assistants, nurses, or technicians are employees of the hospital, the doctrine treats them as temporarily "borrowed servants" of the surgeon. 
• Ultimate Accountability: Because the lead physician directs the team, they can be held directly liable for errors (such as a retained surgical instrument) made by their subordinates. 

Context & Modern Status

• Origins: The phrase originated in a 1949 Pennsylvania court case (McConnell v. Williams). It gained popularity because, at the time, hospitals were protected by charitable immunity laws, meaning patients had to hold the doctor accountable to receive compensation.
• Modern Decline: Today, the doctrine has fallen out of favor and has been rejected by most courts. Modern medicine is highly specialized, and operating rooms are so complex that it is unrealistic for a surgeon to personally supervise every single task performed by hospital staff. 
• Shift to Hospitals: Today, courts primarily use the "borrowed servant doctrine" or vicarious liability, and hospitals are much more frequently held directly liable for the actions of their own employees. 

MBBS

MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) is a 5.5-year undergraduate medical degree that qualifies you to become a licensed doctor. It requires 4.5 years of coursework followed by a 1-year mandatory rotating internship. 

Key Course Details

• Duration: 5.5 Years (4.5 academics + 1 year internship)
• Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and a minimum of 50% aggregate
• Entrance Exam: Admission is strictly through the competitive NEET-UG exam
• Fees Range: ₹25,000 to ₹25 Lakh+ depending on government or private institutions 

Core Curriculum

The course is divided into pre-clinical, para-clinical, and clinical phases: 

• Phase 1: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry
• Phase 2: Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Forensic Medicine
• Phase 3: Community Medicine, Ophthalmology, Otorhinolaryngology, General Medicine, Pediatrics, Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynecology 

MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) does not have a single "founder". The degree originated from medieval European universities, particularly in the UK, as a way to standardize medical and surgical practices. It was introduced in India by the British East India Company in the 1830s. 

The MBBS degree traces its structural roots back to ancient university traditions in Scotland and England. In India, the degree was institutionalized when the British government and the East India Company opened the first modern medical schools. 

Key historical milestones and figures include:

• The Pioneer Institution: The first systematic medical college in India was Medical College Kolkata, established in 1835 under the guidance of Lord William Bentinck. The first batch of students graduated in 1839. 
• Indian Contributors: Visionaries like Jagannath Shankarsheth and Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy were instrumental in founding later pioneer institutions like the Grant Medical College in Mumbai, which began conferring medical degrees in the mid-1840s. 
• Father of Medicine: If you are looking for the ancient founding father of Western medicine, it is the Greek physician Hippocrates. For surgery, the ancient Indian physician Sushruta is widely recognized. 

Father of Pharmacy- Pharm-D

Pharmacy was not invented by a single person. Instead, it evolved over thousands of years. However, the ancient Greek physician Claudius Galen is widely considered the "Father of Pharmacy" for developing standardized medicinal formulas and foundational pharmacological principles. 

The origins of the profession span across several key historical milestones:

• Ancient Mesopotamia & Egypt (c. 2600 BC): The earliest known apothecaries and written medical prescriptions were recorded by Sumerians and ancient Egyptians on clay tablets and papyri (like the Ebers Papyrus). 
• The Islamic Golden Age (8th to 13th Century): Muslim scholars and alchemists greatly advanced pharmaceutical sciences, and the first private apothecary shops were established in Baghdad. 
• Separation of Professions (17th Century): European societies formally separated the roles of the physician (who diagnosed) and the pharmacist (who prepared and dispensed medicines). 

Notable Regional Pioneers:

• America: Professor William Procter Jr. is often called the "Father of American Pharmacy" for helping establish the American Pharmacists Association in 1852.
• India: Mahadev Lal Schroff is recognized as the "Father of Indian Pharmacy" for introducing the country's first dedicated pharmacy education courses at Banaras Hindu University in 1932. 

The Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree was not created by a single founder. Instead, it evolved through institutional adoption. Globally, modern clinical pharmacy residencies began in 1927 at the University of Michigan (championed by Harvey A.K. Whitney). 

In India, the Pharm.D. degree was introduced and regulated by the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) and the Government of India in 2008. If you are looking for the pioneer of structured pharmacy education in India, Prof. Mahadeva Lal Schroff is widely revered as the "Father of Pharmacy Education" in the country. 

Paul F. Parker (1919–1998) did not invent or independently found the Pharm.D. degree itself, but he is a celebrated pioneer of modern clinical pharmacy and one of the chief architects of the clinical residency model that shapes the degree today. 

Throughout his career, Parker's major contributions to the profession included:

• The Clinical Model: He was a visionary for moving pharmacists from behind the counter into patient care areas and establishing the first pharmacist-staffed drug information center. 
• Residency Training: As Director of Pharmacy at the University of Kentucky (1960–1984), he created one of the nation's premier combined residency and Pharm.D. programs. This heavily influenced the didactic and clinical standards for future Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) tracks.
• The Paul F. Parker Medal: The American College of Clinical Pharmacy awards a medal named in his honor, recognizing individuals who make sustained, innovative contributions to the profession of pharmacy.

BHMS

BHMS stands for Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery, a 5.5-year undergraduate degree in India focused on alternative, holistic medicine. It trains students to diagnose and treat patients using natural healing methods, including a 4.5-year academic study and a 1-year compulsory internship. 

Key Details About BHMS:

• Course Structure: The curriculum covers Anatomy, Physiology, Pharmacy, Materia Medica, and Organon of Medicine
  .
Eligibility: Students typically need a 10+2 qualification with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, along with passing the NEET entrance exam.
Duration: 5.5 years, including 4.5 years of academic study and 1 year of internship.
Career Opportunities: Graduates become licensed homeopathic doctors capable of working in private clinics, government hospitals, or pursuing higher education.

BHMS is distinct from MBBS, as it specializes in homeopathic principles rather than allopathic medicine. 

BHMS CCH refers to the Central Council of Homoeopathy (CCH), the former statutory regulatory body in India that governed homeopathy education and practice under the Ministry of AYUSH. It was responsible for regulating the Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS) degree course. Note that the CCH has been replaced by the National Commission for Homoeopathy (NCH). 

Key Details Regarding CCH and BHMS:

• Role: The CCH (now NCH) regulates BHMS education, ensuring standards in admission, curriculum, and examinations.
• BHMS: Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery, a 5.5-year undergraduate degree.
• Context: While CCH primarily means the regulatory council, BHMS graduates may also pursue a "Certificate in Community Health" (CCH/Bridge Course) to work in health centers. 

Synonyms/Related Terms:

• NCH (National Commission for Homoeopathy): The new governing body replacing CCH.
• Council of Homoeopathy: Frequently used to refer to the central governing body. 

After completing BHMS, top post-graduation options include specializing via MD in Homeopathy (Materia Medica, Repertory, Pediatrics, Psychiatry), Master of Public Health (MPH), or Masters in Hospital Administration (MHA). Other paths include PG diplomas in Clinical Research, Emergency Medicine, Nutrition, or Health Management to enhance career opportunities. 

Key Postgraduate Specializations After BHMS:

• MD in Homeopathy (3 Years): Specialized fields include Practice of Medicine, Paediatrics, Psychiatry, Repertory, Materia Medica, Pharmacy, and Organon of Medicine.
• Masters/MBA in Healthcare Management: Options include MHA (Master of Hospital Administration) and MBA in Healthcare/Pharmaceutical Management for leadership roles.
• Master of Public Health (MPH): Focuses on community health, epidemiology, and policy.
• MSc Courses: Specialized areas like MSc in Clinical Research, Applied Psychology, Food and Nutrition, or Human Genome. 

Post Graduate Diplomas & Certificates (Short-term/Diploma): 

• Clinical Specialties: Diploma in Emergency Medicine, PG Diploma in Clinical Research, Fellowship in Medical Cosmetology, or Fellowship in Homeopathic Dermatology.
• Management & Allied Health: PG Diploma in Hospital Administration, Food and Nutrition, or Pharmaceutical Management.
• Technological/Cardiac Studies: Certificate in ECG Interpretation or Advanced Certificate in NABH accreditation. 

Career Pathways Post-PG:

• Medical Officer: Positions in government (NHM, State PSC, ESIC, Railways) or private hospitals.
• Clinical Researcher: Roles in clinical trial management and pharma companies.
• Hospital Administrator: Managing operations in hospitals and healthcare facilities.
• Academician: Teaching in homeopathic colleges. 

Entrance Exams for PG Courses:

• AIAPGET (All India Ayush Post Graduate Entrance Test): Required for admission to MD Hom courses.
• CAT/MAT: Required for many MBA programs in hospital management. 

MD programs in homeopathy are typically 3 years and are available at government (often with stipends of ₹30,000–₹40,000) and private institutes. 

The "divine god" or founder of homeopathy is the German physician Dr. Christian Friedrich Samuel Hahnemann (1755–1843). He developed the foundational principles of this alternative system of medicine in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. 

Core Philosophy

Hahnemann's work is based on several key concepts outlined in his foundational text, the Organon of the Healing Art:

• Law of Similars: Often translated as "like cures like" (similia similibus curantur), this principle states that a substance that causes symptoms in a healthy person can be used to treat similar symptoms in a sick person.
• Minimum Dose: Medicines are administered in highly diluted amounts to minimize potential side effects while attempting to trigger the body's natural healing responses.

Legacy

• World Homeopathy Day: The global homeopathic community observes World Homeopathy Day annually on April 10th to honor Hahnemann's birthday.
• Indian Context: Given your location in Gujarat, India, it's worth noting that India is one of the primary regions where homeopathy is widely practiced today. The country hosts hundreds of thousands of registered practitioners and numerous homeopathic medical colleges

Babu Rajendra Lal Dutta (1818–1889) is widely recognized as the Father of Indian Homoeopathy. A prominent Bengali philanthropist and layman practitioner, he was instrumental in popularizing the system and successfully bringing it into the esteem of the Indian elite by curing notable figures like Pandit Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar. 

While Dr. John Martin Honigberger introduced the practice to India in 1839, Dutta championed the practice's cause from the 1860s onwards. He is heavily credited with converting eminent allopaths like Dr. Mahendra Lal Sircar to homoeopathy, paving the way for its rapid acceptance across the country.

BAMS

BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) is a 5.5-year undergraduate degree in India integrating traditional Ayurveda with modern medicine. It covers subjects like anatomy, physiology, and herbal medicine, requiring a NEET-qualified 12th-grade pass (PCB). Graduates work as registered Ayurvedic doctors. 

Key Details About BAMS:

• Duration: 5.5 years (4.5 years academic study + 1-year mandatory internship)
  .
Full Form: Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery.
Admission Process: Admission is based on the NEET-UG exam.
Curriculum: Studies cover Rachana Sharir (Anatomy), Kriya Sharir (Physiology), Ayurveda Samhita (Classical texts), Dravyaguna (Pharmacology), and modern medical subjects.
Career Scope: Graduates can work as Ayurvedic doctors, Medical Officers, Panchakarma Specialists, or in research/pharmaceuticals.
Salary: Starting salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to INR 15 LPA.
Further Studies: Graduates can pursue PG courses like MD (Ayurveda) or MS (Ayurveda). 

The program is regulated by the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM). 

Top post-graduation options after BAMS include MD/MS (Ayurveda) in specialties like Kayachikitsa or Shalya Tantra (3 years), Masters in Public Health (MPH), MBA in Healthcare Management, and clinical research diplomas. Admission to MD/MS requires passing the AIAPGET exam. Other options include Panchakarma, nutrition, or legal medicine, offering pathways into clinical practice, research, and management. 

Top Post-Graduation Courses (Degree & Diploma)

• MD/MS in Ayurveda (3 years): The most popular path for specialization. Top branches include:
  • Kayachikitsa (General Medicine)
  • Shalya Tantra (Surgery)
  • Panchakarma (Detoxification)
  • Prasuti Tantra & Stri Roga (Gynecology & Obstetrics)
  • Kaumarbhritya (Pediatrics)
• Masters in Public Health (MPH) & Health Administration (MHA): High demand for policy and management roles.
• MBA in Healthcare Management: Prepares graduates for hospital administration.
• M.Sc. in Clinical Research: Focuses on drug trials.
• Post Graduate Diplomas (1-2 years):
  • PG Diploma in Panchakarma: Specialized practical training.
  • PG Diploma in Drug Regulatory Affairs: Focus on pharmaceutical law.
  • Diploma in Medical Trichology: Hair treatment specialization. 

Alternative Specialized Courses

• Certificate in Ksharasutra: Specialized anorectal surgery training.
• Certificate in Nadi Pariksha: Pulse diagnosis specialization.
• MBA in Medicinal Marketing: Focus on pharmaceutical marketing.
• LLB: For careers as a medico-legal advisor.

Key Entrance Exam

• AIAPGET (All India Ayush Post Graduate Entrance Test): Required for admission to MD/MS courses in Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. 

Post-graduation options after BAMS include specialization in Ayurveda through MD/MS (3 years), clinical specializations like Panchakarma, or diversifying into healthcare management (MBA), public health (MPH), and clinical research. Key entrance exams for top PG Ayurveda courses (MD/MS) in India include AIAPGET. 

Top PG Courses After BAMS

• MD (Ayurveda): Specializations include Kayachikitsa (Internal Medicine), Dravya Guna (Pharmacology), Kaumarbhritya (Pediatrics), and Rasa Shastra.
• MS (Ayurveda): Focuses on surgical aspects like Shalya Tantra (Surgery) and Shalakya Tantra (ENT).
• Master of Public Health (MPH): Focused on community health and research, popular among BAMS graduates.
• MBA in Healthcare Management: Focuses on hospital administration and healthcare business.
• M.Sc in Clinical Research: Ideal for entering the pharmaceutical, clinical trials, or research industry.
• PG Diploma Courses: Specialized options include PG Diploma in Panchakarma, Medical Trichology, Food and Nutrition, or Drug Regulatory Affairs (6 months - 1 year). 

Specialized Certifications

• Ksharasutra Certification: Specialized training for treating anorectal disorders.
• Nadi Pariksha Course: Focuses on pulse diagnosis.

Career & Academic Pathways

• PhD in Ayurveda: Research-focused option after completing an MD/MS.
• Corporate & Management: Roles in Medical Tourism, Hospital Administration, and Pharmaceutical Management.
• Allopathic Bridge Courses: Some states allow for certificates like the Diploma in Allopathy Medicine & Surgery (DAMS) for emergency training. 

GOD OF AYURVEDA

Lord Dhanvantari is the celestial physician of the gods and the divine originator of Ayurveda in Hindu mythology. He is revered as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu who emerged from the cosmic ocean carrying the pot of the elixir of immortality (Amrita) to bless humanity with health, vitality, and longevity. 

Legend and Iconography

• The Origin: According to the Samudra Manthan (churning of the cosmic ocean) legend, he rose from the waters bearing a cup filled with the nectar of life.
• Appearance: He is typically depicted as a handsome, four-armed deity resembling Lord Vishnu. His hands traditionally hold:
  1. The Amrit Kalash (pot of nectar).
  2. The Shankha (conch shell).
  3. The Chakra (discus).
  4. Medicinal herbs or a leech (symbolizing ancient bloodletting/surgical healing). 

Significance in Ayurveda

Dhanvantari is considered the guru of all healers, and his teachings are the foundation of traditional Indian medicine. Ayurveda emphasizes holistic healing, focusing on the balance of the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) to prevent disease and promote long-term well-being. 

Worship & Festivals

• Dhanteras: He is primarily worshipped during Dhanteras (Dhanvantari Jayanti), which falls on the 13th lunar day of the dark fortnight in the Hindu month of Kartik. Devotees pray to him for good health and protection from ailments.
• Mantra: A popular healing chant dedicated to him is often recited for vitality and peace:

  Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Dhanvantaraye Amrita-kalash Hastaya Sarva-amaya Vinashaya Trailokya-nathaya Dhanvantari-mahaye Namah.

Pharmacist and Pharmacotherapist

Pharmacists are healthcare/pharmacare professionals focused on the safe dispensing, management, and education regarding medications. Pharmacotherapists are specialized pharmacists who work directly with physicians to design, monitor, and adjust individualized, complex medication therapies to optimize patient outcomes, often in clinical or hospital settings. 

Key Differences:

• Role Focus: Pharmacists ensure medication safety, provide counseling, and dispense prescriptions. Pharmacotherapists focus on therapeutic drug management, disease state management, and optimizing drug regimens.
• Work Setting: Pharmacists often work in community pharmacies or hospital settings. Pharmacotherapists are generally specialized clinicians found in hospitals or specialized clinics.
• Specialization: While all pharmacists have a PharmD, a pharmacotherapist often holds board certification (e.g., Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist - BCPS).
• Patient Interaction: Both interact with patients, but pharmacotherapists have a more direct role in therapeutic decision-making alongside doctors. 

Shared Goals:
Both aim to maximize therapeutic benefits, ensure safe medication use, prevent drug-related problems, and enhance overall quality of life for patients. 

DEA number

A DEA number (DEA Registration Number) is an identifier assigned to a health care provider (such as a physician, optometrist, ], dentist, or veterinarian) by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration allowing them to write prescriptions for controlled substances.

After completion of Pharm D(PB) in India and after successfully passing entrance exam by CPC in India again, will the indian pharmacist is supposed to appear for entrance exam FPGEE /NAPLEX in USA, so as a DEA number is issued to him by USA ? 

Yes, a pharmacist with a PharmD can obtain a DEA number, but only if their state of practice grants them prescriptive authority and they meet specific legal requirements. By default, holding a PharmD does not automatically mean you possess or need a DEA registration. 

The rules vary depending on your scope of practice:

• Clinical Pharmacists (Restricted): In states that allow pharmacists to prescribe or manage medication therapies (such as managing controlled substances in clinics or the VA health system), a pharmacist can register with the DEA as a mid-level practitioner. There are only about 11 states (including California, Washington, New Mexico, and Ohio) that broadly authorize this for qualifying clinical pharmacists. 
• Retail Pharmacists (Usually No): Retail or community pharmacists typically do not have or require their own personal DEA numbers to verify, process, or dispense controlled substances. They rely on the DEA numbers of the prescribing doctors (or hospitals) to verify prescriptions.