Mumbai | June 13 | Rayat Samachar
(FDA) The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has clearly stated that hospitals cannot compel patients to purchase medicines exclusively from their in-house pharmacies. FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe emphasized that patients and their relatives have the legal right to buy prescribed medicines from any licensed pharmacy of their choice.
(FDA) According to the administration, complaints have been consistently received regarding private hospitals forcing patients to purchase medicines only from hospital pharmacies. In many cases, patients are discouraged from bringing medicines purchased elsewhere or face unnecessary obstacles when attempting to do so. In response to these complaints, Commissioner Mundhe clarified the rights of patients.
A recent incident near Savedi village in Ahilyanagar highlighted the issue, where a hospital allegedly threatened to discharge a patient after the patient’s financially struggling relatives purchased medicines from an external pharmacy offering lower-cost medicines. The hospital reportedly refused to accept medicines bought from outside, leading to concerns about the financial exploitation of vulnerable patients.
(FDA) Mundhe stated that hospital pharmacies are intended for patient convenience and not for enforcing mandatory purchases. Medicines prescribed by doctors can legally be purchased from any authorized medical store. Therefore, pressuring patients or refusing externally purchased medicines without valid reasons may be considered a violation of regulations.
The FDA has warned that hospitals found violating these patient rights will face strict action under applicable laws. Patients experiencing such coercion have been urged to report complaints through the Maharashtra FDA toll-free helpline 1800 22 2365.
Healthcare experts believe that the clarification will help patients compare medicine prices and choose more affordable options, thereby reducing the overall financial burden of medical treatment.
The directive is being viewed as an important step toward protecting patient rights and promoting greater transparency in healthcare services across Maharashtra, providing relief to millions of patients and their families.
