PCI's Pharmacy Practice Regulation 2010 to mandate norms for registered pharmacists

The Pharmacy Practice Regulations 2010, framed by the Pharmacy Council of India to regulate the pharmacy profession and soon to be notified by the Union Government, may give a new dimension to the pharmacy profession of the country, it is learnt.

Besides escalating the pharmacy career into a noble domain of social service, the regulations will make clear the role and responsibilities of the pharmacists who have to practice methods of practice founded on scientific basis. The draft of the regulations has been circulated to all the state drug control authorities for their feedback and it will become a rule with its notification by the central government soon, said Dr B Suresh, president, PCI.

The regulations that mandate certain norms for the registered pharmacists emphasize the need for improving their knowledge and skills which should be made available for the benefits of the patients. The draft of the PPR says a person having qualification in any other system of pharmacy will not be allowed to practice modern system of pharmacy in any form. The registered pharmacist is bound to uphold the dignity and honour of his profession. Once the rule is notified, it will become mandatory for the pharmacist to attend two refresher courses in pharmacy of minimum one day duration each in a span of five years organized by PCI or government agencies or professional bodies recognized by the Council.

Another significant clause is that for the advancement of the profession, a registered pharmacist should affiliate with associations and societies of allopathic pharmacy professions and involve actively in the functioning of such bodies. He should also participate in professional meetings as part of Continuing Pharmacy Education programmes organized by reputed professional academic bodies or any other authorized associations.

According to the draft regulations, the pharmacist has to undertake a pharmaceutical assessment of every prescription presented for dispensing. Pharmaceutical assessment means the point at which registered pharmacist applies his knowledge to establish the safety, quality, efficacy and rational use of drugs treatments specified by a prescriber. He should be ready to respond to the calls of the sick and the injured and be mindful of the high character of his mission and the responsibility he discharges in the course of his professional duties.