Barriers and Facilitators in the Adoption of Generic Medicines among Pharmacists

Abstract

Introduction: Generic drugs, being therapeutically equivalent, bioequivalent versions of branded drugs are a critical means by which to meet public health requirements, particularly in developing countries. The use of generic drugs is a powerful tool to help control health care costs and improve access. Yet their implementation is conditional on various stakeholder-parochial facilitators and barriers. This study will investigate opportunities and barriers as perceived by pharmacists in a multi-actor context. This information is important for developing strategies for promoting generic medicine and a fair and sustainable health care system.

Materials and methods: A Randomized, cross-sectional design is used for a complete understanding of the barriers and facilitating factors of pharmacists’ use of generic drugs. Structured survey methods are used to capture quantitative data to discover trends and relationships, supplemented by qualitative interviews to provide in-depth contextual understanding. This dual method allows the researcher to gain an understanding of the topic from both the general and far-reaching by the specific and individual. Target population The target population were licensed pharmacists employed in the community and hospital practice setting in urban and rural communities. Participants are to have at least 1 years practical experience, in order to guarantee that their views are well-informed. The survey employs a convenience sampling method to reach an estimated number of 300 respondents.

Results: The maximum number of patients was the age group of 31–40 years (35%) followed by 20–30 years (30%). There were 10% above 50 years, indicating that the study predominantly involved career mid-stage participants. There was a higher ratio of female participants (55%) because of the worldwide tendency of increasing the proportion of female pharmacists. Practice site characteristics: The community pharmacists (65%) were represented predominantly as observed in studies examining direct patient encounters and generic substitution practice. There was a fair representation of pharmacists according to experience: 40% (1–5 years), 30% (6–10 years) and 30% (>10 years), which could guarantee input from the beginning to the experienced practice. More than half (55%) of pharmacists either strongly agreed or agreed that the effectiveness of generic drugs is in doubt, suggesting persistent doubt. Regulatory Barriers 50% felt that policies and legal standards hinder the substitution of generic drugs. The hurdle is high: 65% of all respondents agree or strongly agree that patients do not trust generics, which may influence pharmacists’ advice. Institutional barriers such as Hospitals prefering brand due to procurement practices or 45% felt this impedes, it may be institutions effectivelective formularies were rated as having a role, and an institutional reason.

Conclusion: Pharmacists have their part in promoting rational use of drugs. Building their capabilities and addressing those bottlenecks through policy, education and collaboration with them are key to the successful and sustainable reliance on generic medicines in healthcare.