Srinagar: The Directorate of Health Services (DHS) Jammu has issued strict instructions to doctors in government hospitals to adhere to standardized prescription norms in order to improve patient safety and reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses.
The directive, issued through an official circular on Saturday, comes in response to reports that doctors across Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) have not been following prescription guidelines, leading to mass medication practices that financially burden patients.
Key Directives from DHS Jammu:
- Mandatory Use of Capital Letters:
- All prescriptions must be written in capital letters to enhance clarity and avoid confusion for patients.
- This measure aligns with the New Drug Policy and aims to prevent errors in medication.
- Use of Generic Names:
- Doctors must prescribe medicines using generic names, as per the Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulation, 2002.
- This ensures affordability and prevents unnecessary expenditure on expensive branded drugs.
- Clear Diagnosis & Drug Information:
- Every prescription should include the patient’s diagnosis, the prescribed medicines, and detailed drug-related instructions.
- Medico-Legal Reports:
- Doctors and technicians must write medico-legal reports in capital letters to ensure clarity in legal and administrative documentation.
Concerns Over Prescription Practices in J&K
A report published by Rising Kashmir on February 11 highlighted widespread non-compliance with prescription norms in public hospitals across Jammu and Kashmir, contributing to increased healthcare costs for patients.
To address these issues, the DHS has instructed Chief Medical Officers and Medical Superintendents across J&K to strictly enforce the new prescription guidelines in their respective districts and healthcare institutions.
By ensuring patient participation in healthcare decisions and promoting transparent prescription practices, the government aims to improve medical accessibility and reduce financial burdens on the public.
