JOIN USGovt inks pact with pvt firm for generic drug stores
Government hospitals in 176 taluk and 30 district headquarters will soon have generic drug stores where people from all economic strata can avail medicines at reasonable prices.
The government has signed an MoU with Hindustan Lifecare Limited (HLL) for setting up these generic drug stores. Inaugurating the first-of-its kind store under the Health department at the KC General Hospital on Monday, Minister for Health and Family Welfare U T Khader said that patients from lower economic classes could avail medicines at around 60 to 80 per cent discount from these stores.
As many as 1,000 types of generic drugs will be made available at these stores. Speaking about the problems that the initiative faced while it was first introduced in a medical college hospital, Khader said, “The new model has been designed keeping in mind the shortcomings in previous models,” he said.
The minister said that if patients were doubtful about the quality of drugs, they could get the same tested. “Only drugs manufactured by noted multinational companies will be sold here. This will ensure quality,” he added.
From June
The generic drug store, ‘Janasanjeevini,’ at KC General Hospital will be opened for public from June. “We are working out the modalities for running it on a 24-hours basis,” he said.
With the hospital getting a new kitchen block, the old one will house a diagnostic unit. The hospital will soon have CT scan and MRI facilities.
The government, in association with HLL, will set up diagnostic centres across the State and the facility will be provided at nominal fees, the minister said.
“We are contemplating on having a software with the help of which the generic name of a drug is displayed even if the brand name is entered. We will also try to have addresses of generic drug stores displayed in front of hospitals and clinics in the City,” Khader said.