A recent study by researchers, including those from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Delhi, revealed alarming trends in medical prescriptions across India. According to findings reported by NDTV, the study reveals that one in every two prescriptions issued deviates from standard treatment guidelines, with approximately 10% displaying “unacceptable deviations.”
The comprehensive analysis, spanning 4,838 prescriptions from 13 Rational Use of Medicines Centres (RUMC) established by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) between August 2019 and August 2020, underscores potential risks for patients. These risks include unnecessary medication, increased treatment costs, and possible adverse drug reactions.
Key Findings and Concerns
The study highlights several key concerns, notably the frequent misuse of medications such as gastroprotective drugs (e.g., pantoprazole and rabeprazole domperidone) for conditions where their use is not indicated, such as Herpes Zoster and upper respiratory tract infections.
Dr. Narayanswamy S, medical director at Athreya Super Speciality Hospital, emphasized that a significant proportion of Indian physicians may lack awareness of or access to the latest evidence-based treatment guidelines. Factors contributing to this include:
- Limited continuing medical education (CME) opportunities.
- Restricted access to peer-reviewed journals.
- Language barriers.
Moreover, overburdened healthcare systems and high patient volumes often lead to rushed consultations and a reliance on ingrained prescribing habits rather than adherence to updated guidelines.
Deviation from prescribed guidelines can lead to suboptimal treatment outcomes, including incorrect drug choices, improper dosages, and inappropriate treatment durations. This often results in treatment failure, delayed recovery, increased hospitalizations, and higher morbidity and mortality rates. Furthermore, inappropriate prescribing heightens the risk of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and interactions, exacerbating patient harm and contributing to increased healthcare costs.
To mitigate these risks, Dr. Narayanswamy suggests several strategies:
Knowledge Translation: Actively disseminate and translate guideline recommendations into practical steps for healthcare practitioners.
Infrastructure and Resources: Ensure healthcare facilities are equipped with the necessary infrastructure, resources, and technology to access and implement guidelines effectively.
Behavioural Interventions: Develop interventions targeting cognitive biases and addressing social and psychological factors influencing prescribing behavior.
The study’s findings underscore the critical need for healthcare systems in India to address prescription deviations effectively. By improving awareness, enhancing educational opportunities, and implementing robust guideline adherence practices, the healthcare sector can mitigate risks to patient safety, optimize treatment outcomes, and manage healthcare costs more efficiently. This proactive approach is essential to safeguarding patient health and enhancing the overall quality of medical care in India.
