Maharashtra State Government to Launch Generic Medicine Shops in 18 Government Medical Colleges and Hospitals

Mumbai, 21st July 2023: In a significant move aimed at providing affordable healthcare to the people, the state government has taken the decision to establish generic medicine shops in 18 government medical and dental colleges and hospitals under the Directorate of Medical Education and Research.

As part of this initiative, 14 medical colleges have been granted permission to begin generic medicine centers. Moreover, the pilot agreement for the centers started earlier in four medical colleges and hospitals has concluded, leading to the authorization of these centers in all four institutes.

This decision will greatly benefit the common people of the state, as they will now have access to medicines at reduced rates within the hospital premises. The Urban Development Department’s government decision has resulted in the establishment of Generic Medicine Centers under the Generic Medicine Scheme of the Central Government through the Urban Local Self-Government Organizations in the hospital areas.

Considering the positive impact on patient welfare, the Department of Medical Education and Medicines has taken the initiative to introduce generic medicine centers in government medical colleges and hospitals. As part of this endeavor, an agreement has been signed with Nacof India Limited, a Central Government sponsored multi-state cooperative, to set up these centers. This move aims to make generic medicines available to people in rural areas through hospitals.

A technical committee will be formed, comprising members from the Pharmacology Department of Government Medical College and Hospital, Head of Drug Store, Administrative Officer, and a representative from the Drug Administration Department. This committee will conduct bi-annual reviews of the functioning of generic drug centers and submit its report to the government through the Commissioner of the Medical Education Department.

The medical colleges and hospitals will provide space for the establishment of these generic drug centers, which will operate 24/7. In case generic medicines are unavailable, branded medicines will be offered to patients. However, a mandatory discount of at least 5 percent on the face value of these branded medicines will be provided. This initiative seeks to improve healthcare accessibility and affordability for the citizens of the state.