ArdorComm News Network
November 21, 2023
The Union Health Ministry has unveiled the draft National Pharmacy Commission Bill, 2023, with the aim of replacing the Pharmacy Act of 1948 and establishing a national commission in lieu of the Pharmacy Council of India. Published on November 14 on the ministry’s website, the draft bill is open to public feedback.
The proposed legislation focuses on enhancing the pharmacy education system to make quality and affordable pharmaceutical education more accessible. It also aims to ensure a sufficient supply of high-quality pharmacy professionals nationwide, promote universal healthcare, and make pharmacy services available to all citizens.
Key provisions of the draft bill include the periodic and transparent evaluation of pharmacy institutions, the establishment of a pharmacy register for India, and the enforcement of high ethical standards in all aspects of pharmacy services. Additionally, it encourages pharmacy professionals to incorporate the latest research into their work and contribute to ongoing research efforts.
The draft bill emphasizes adaptability to changing needs and proposes the creation of an effective grievance redressal mechanism. The Pharmacy Ethics and Registration Board, as outlined in the draft, will maintain a National Pharmacy Register containing details of pharmacy professionals to ensure transparency.