Pharma Jogot
In a redefined role, the pharmacist is set to get closer to the patient as his job will go beyond dispensing medicines against prescriptions. One of the ways pharmacists will connect with patients away from the clutter of the busy pharmacy counter is in consulting areas advising them about the use of the prescribed medicines.
Besides, pharmacists will have to undergo refresher courses, conduct health education and undertake pharmacoepidemiological studies.
The Pharmacy Practice Regulations-2015, framed by the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) which was notified recently, are the first comprehensive changes in the old laws governing this sector. The practice is currently regulated by the Pharmacy Act of 1948 and the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940.
Experts said the new regulations will improve the quality of healthcare, ensure that pharmacists maintain high standards in their duty, and curb the abuse of medicines.
“The new regulations have identified the need for educating pharmacists, refreshing and updating their knowledge periodically like that of doctors and have elaborately defined areas that can be construed as professional misconduct,” said Sayali Masal, registrar of Maharashtra State Pharmacy Council (MSPC).
The objective is to regulate the profession in the state. There are currently 1.70 lakh registered pharmacists, and over 300 degree and diploma colleges in the state recognized by the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI).
The new regulation has made attending continued education programs mandatory. “Pharmacists will have to attend at least two refresher programs to qualify for renewal of registration every five years,” Masal said.
The new regulations mandate training of pharmacists in patient counseling. “MSPC had identified the need for a pharmacist’s role in counseling patients long ago. We have been conducting such courses since 2007. The earlier five-day course has now been made into a three-day course. The module is available on our website for pharmacists to avail knowledge online,” Masal said.
The All-India Organization of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) has objected to the new regulations. “Pharmacists must undergo two refresher courses to qualify for renewal of registration. But the refresher courses are in English and most pharmacists are not comfortable in English as a medium of instruction. Besides, pharmacists over 60 years of age may find it difficult to attend refresher courses. Besides, there are expenses over attending such courses,” said Jagannath Shinde of AIOCD.
The new norms have empowered pharmacists to review the patient’s record for therapeutic appropriateness. It also authorizes the healthcare professional to conduct health-related promotion, education and provide information. Registered pharmacists can undertake pharmacoepidemiological studies. (Source: The Times of India)