Pharmacy Services in India: Current Lapses and Future Prospects

After completing my Diploma in Pharmacy and undergoing a 3-month training in a pharmacy shop, it became clear that the role of a pharmacist in India is often limited and underutilized. Rather than acting as knowledgeable professionals, most pharmacists in India are effectively 'drug handlers' who simply distribute medicines based on doctor’s prescriptions. This approach lacks the professional depth and responsibility that should be expected from a critical healthcare provider.

The Current State of Pharmacy Services in India

The job description of a pharmacist in India typically involves:

Taking stock from dealers Distributing medicines as per doctor’s prescriptions Returning expired stock to dealers

Essentially, this process is routine and monotonous, lacking the complexity and challenge required for a professional role. The responsibility of a pharmacist extends beyond mere distribution; it involves patient care and medical advice. Pharmacies in India often fail to provide the comprehensive services that patients should receive, such as health assessments, medication advice, and patient education.

Why this Limited Role?

The limited role of pharmacists in India is largely due to the lack of professional opportunities and career advancement. Many pharmacists who can find alternative jobs in hospitals or opt to open their own pharmacies do so as their last resort. These options are often unavailable or unsatisfactory due to the perception of a pharmacy role as a less esteemed position within the medical profession.

Much like the past when pharmacists were known as compounders, the role has evolved but not to the extent of recognition and respect it deserves. This lack of professional engagement in the field is not just a matter of personal choice, but also a societal and systemic issue. Pharmacists are not given the same respect and treatment as medical doctors or even para-medical professionals such as nursing technicians.

Needed Changes in Pharmaceutical Services

To improve the healthcare landscape in India, it is imperative to adopt a more advanced and patient-centric approach similar to those in Western countries. Pharmacies should serve as primary healthcare providers, where:

A patient seeking care visits a pharmacist first. The pharmacist evaluates the patient's health and provides appropriate care. The pharmacist writes prescriptions and ensures the correct drugs are dispensed. Pharmacists educate patients on the proper usage, potential side effects, and interactions of medications. Pharmacists inquire about the patient's medical history and allergies. Pharmacy systems allow tracking of patient histories for better care and management.

Proper management of pharmacy services is crucial, particularly in relation to the disposal of expired drugs. It is imperative to have sound procedures in place for returning expired drugs to the manufacturers for proper disposal. This practice is not only cost-effective but also environmentally responsible. The failure to adhere to these practices results in significant financial losses; India reportedly loses around 500 Crores annually due to poor management practices.

Efforts to modernize the pharmacy sector in India can lead to significant improvements in healthcare delivery, patient care, and cost-effectiveness. By recognizing pharmacists as essential healthcare professionals, the profession can experience growth and development, ultimately benefiting patients and the healthcare system as a whole.

Sharmila Anver
Thank you for your interest in the current state of pharmacy services in India.