Only generic meds: Punjab’s prescription mandate for govt docs

Chandigarh: To cut patients' out-of-pocket expenditure on healthcare, Punjab govt has mandated that all govt doctors in the state prescribe only generic medicines at public health institutions.The decision is intended to ease the financial burden on patients, particularly those from economically weaker sections, by ensuring wider access to life-saving and commonly used medicines without forcing families to spend from their own pockets.Punjab records one of the higher levels of out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure in the country, above the national average. According to the Comprehensive Annual Modular Survey conducted by the ministry of statistics and programme implementation for the July 2022-June 2023 period, the average medical expense per hospitalisation in the state stood at Rs 8,306 for rural households and Rs 8,272 for urban households. These expenses are often met through personal savings or borrowings, placing additional strain on household finances. "In compliance with the directions of the Govt of India, all govt doctors are instructed to prescribe only generic medicines in all Punjab Health Systems Corporation health institutions," reads the official order.The order makes it clear that all prescriptions issued by govt doctors must mention only the generic name of the medicine, written legibly in capital letters, and that brand names are not to be mentioned under any circumstances. Doctors are also directed to ensure that the prescribed medicines are available through govt supply, Jan Aushadhi Kendras, or other approved generic medicine outlets. Medical Superintendents, DMCS, and SMOs are asked to ensure strict compliance with these directions by conducting periodic checks of prescriptions. Any deviation from the instructions will be viewed seriously and may invite administrative action as per applicable rules.Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA) President Dr Akhil Sarin said the cadre is strictly adhering to the instructions, and medicines are being prescribed from those available within public healthcare set-ups. "The move seems to be primarily aimed at reducing the out-of-pocket expenditure of underserved patients," said Dr Sarin.He added the govt should simultaneously ensure a streamlined supply of medicines through its warehouses, along with adequate budgetary support for purchasing drugs and consumables not currently available, so that the directions can be implemented effectively.