Former State Drugs Controller, FDA Karnataka |
Presently working as Legal Consultant for Pharma field |
Email ID: jagashetty@gmail.com
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Last Updated on March 17, 2024 by The Health Master
E-Pharmacy Rules
In the wake of ongoing reforms, spearheaded by the Union government to emancipate various sectors from monopolies and exploitative practices, the release of e-pharmacy rules stands as a pivotal step towards transparency in the pharmaceutical trade.
Dr. BR Jagashetty, former National Adviser (Drugs Control) to MoHFW & CDSCO, emphasizes the significance of this move, drawing parallels with recent agricultural reforms aimed at liberating farmers from undue influence.
The Call for Reform
1. Easing Monopoly
Amidst the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, pharmacists emerged as frontline warriors, risking exposure to ensure the uninterrupted supply of life-saving medications.
The reliance on digital technologies enabled swift identification of pharmaceutical distributors and manufacturers, facilitating doorstep deliveries to consumers.
2. Consumer Convenience
The pandemic-induced lockdowns witnessed a surge in online medicine purchases, driven by consumer preferences for contactless transactions.
Telemedicine guidelines provided by the government further fueled this trend, amplifying the need for robust e-pharmacy regulations to safeguard consumer interests.
3. Healthcare Affordability
Dr. Jagashetty underscores the burden of out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, with a significant portion attributed to medication costs.
Quoting the Competition Commission of India (CCI), he highlights the dominance of self-regulation by trade associations, stifling competition and innovation in the drug distribution ecosystem.
The Case for E-Pharmacies
1. Regulatory Compliance
E-pharmacy regulations, when implemented, will not only address concerns regarding the sale of habit-forming and scheduled drugs but also streamline the online purchase process, prioritizing prescription-based transactions post-pandemic.
2. Competition Dynamics
The CCI’s advocacy for digitization underscores the potential of e-pharmacies to introduce transparency and foster price competition, without undermining the traditional brick-and-mortar chemist community.
Dr. Jagashetty emphasizes the need for progressive trade associations to embrace innovative models that enhance consumer accessibility while upholding regulatory standards.
3. Ensuring Fair Practices
E-pharmacies, equipped with stringent regulatory safeguards, offer a viable solution to combat anti-competitive trade practices prevalent in the pharmaceutical retail landscape.
By adhering to prescribed protocols and leveraging technological advancements, these platforms can revolutionize drug dispensation, ensuring affordability and accountability.
Conclusion
The expedited release of e-pharmacy rules is imperative to fortify the government’s commitment to healthcare accessibility and digital transformation.
By embracing transparency and fostering competition, these regulations herald a new era of consumer-centric pharmaceutical trade, in alignment with the broader ethos of reformative governance.
FAQs
1. How will e-pharmacy regulations impact traditional pharmacy retailers?
E-pharmacy regulations aim to complement rather than replace traditional retailers, fostering healthy competition while ensuring consumer welfare.
2. Are there concerns regarding the quality of medications sold online?
Stringent regulatory measures will be in place to uphold the quality and authenticity of medications dispensed through e-pharmacies, safeguarding consumer interests.
3. What role do trade associations play in shaping the pharmaceutical landscape?
Progressive trade associations are encouraged to embrace digitalization and advocate for fair trade practices, promoting innovation and accessibility in the sector.
4. How will e-pharmacy rules contribute to healthcare affordability?
By fostering price competition and streamlining distribution channels, e-pharmacy regulations seek to mitigate out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, making medications more accessible to the masses.
5. What steps can consumers take to ensure the legitimacy of e-pharmacy platforms?
Consumers should verify the accreditation and regulatory compliance of e-pharmacy platforms before making purchases, prioritizing platforms endorsed by regulatory authorities.
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