NOVEMBER 2015
There are so many different type of speculation occurred in last few months regarding medicinal practice by pharmacist. Our editorial sums up problems and concerns of these speculations. PCI clarified the doubt that the registered pharmacist can not open clinics to treat diseases or prescribe medicines.
They informed that various messages are being circulated on social media, emails, whats app etc. that pharmacists are empowered under Pharmacy Practice Regulations, 2015 to open pharma clinics to diagnose the disease and prescribe medicines.
PCI further clarified that there is no such provision in the Pharmacy Practice Regulations, 2015. Under the said Regulations, the registered pharmacist is required to dispense medicines on the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner and can counsel the patient or care giver on medicine to enhance or optimize drug therapy.
Here, the word patient counselling seems like misunderstood. The elements of ‘patient counselling’ means name and description of the drugs; the dosage form, dose, route of administration, and duration of drug therapy; Intended use of the drug and expected action; Special directions and precautions for the drug; Common severe side effects or adverse effects or interactions and therapeutic contra indications that may be encountered, including their avoidance, and the action required if they occur; Techniques for self monitoring drug therapy; Proper storage of the drugs; Prescription refill information; Action to be taken in the event of a missed dose; To ensure rational use of drugs.
They further said that under no circumstances, the registered pharmacist is empowered under the Pharmacy Act, 1948 and Pharmacy Practice Regulations, 2015 to practice medicines or open clinics to provide medical care.
Pharmacy is not only profession, It’s a serving of life…
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