Why is it in the news?

• The Union government introduces a code to promote pharmaceutical products while combating unethical practices within the sector.

Uniform Code for Pharmaceuticals Marketing Practices (UCPMP) 2024

• Ensures that drugs are only promoted after obtaining marketing approval, preventing the dissemination of misleading information.
• Mandates that terms like ‘safe’ must be used with appropriate qualifications, preventing the exaggeration of drug efficacy.
• Limits the distribution of free drug samples to qualified healthcare professionals, preventing indiscriminate distribution and potential misuse.
• Prohibits healthcare professionals from accepting gifts or benefits from pharmaceutical companies except for educational purposes, reducing the influence of financial incentives on prescribing behaviour.
• Restricts the use of brand names of products from other companies in promotional material without prior consent, ensuring fair competition and preventing misleading comparisons.
• Sets a value limit on informational and educational materials provided by pharmaceutical companies, preventing excessive influence through lavish gifts.
• Mandates the establishment of Ethics Committees for Pharma Marketing Practices to handle complaints and ensure adherence to ethical standards.

Challenges Associated with the Pharma-Doctor Nexus

• Raises concerns about the potential conflict of interest when doctors receive benefits for prescribing specific drugs, potentially compromising patient care.
• Highlights the risk of eroding patient trust if they perceive their doctors’ decisions to be influenced by pharmaceutical companies rather than solely based on medical need.
• Discusses the potential economic implications of prescribing more expensive medications due to ties with pharmaceutical companies, potentially leading to increased healthcare costs.
• Emphasizes the importance of upholding professional ethics and integrity, with acceptance of gifts potentially being viewed as a breach of these standards.
• Points out the legal and professional consequences associated with violating guidelines set by regulatory bodies like the Medical Council of India (MCI).
• Considers the broader impact on the public’s perception of the healthcare profession, which may suffer if a cozy relationship between doctors and pharmaceutical companies is perceived.

Measure taken by the Government

• MCI Guidelines: Discusses guidelines issued by the Medical Council of India (MCI) aimed at maintaining professional independence and integrity among medical practitioners, particularly regarding gifts and benefits.
• NPPA Oversight: Highlights the role of the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) in regulating drug prices and ensuring fair trade practices within the pharmaceutical industry.
• Collaboration with Professional Bodies: Indicates collaboration with professional medical associations and bodies to develop and implement ethical guidelines addressing concerns related to interactions between doctors and pharmaceutical companies.