D A Gundu Rao, President, Karnataka State Pharmacy Council (KSPC) is of the opinion that pharmacists need to regularly update their knowledge base to dispense drugs and to have a better role in healthcare delivery. In this connection, the KSPC has initiated measures like setting up a comprehensive Drug Information Center, computerization of KSCP and appointing pharmacy inspectors. In an interview with Nandita Vijay,
he gives an overview of the activities and achievements of KSPC. Excerpts:

Could you give us an overview of the activities of KSPC?

KSPC is a statutory body constituted by the Government of Karnataka under the provisions of the Pharmacy Act of 1948. It consists of six members elected by registered pharmacists amongst themselves, five members nominated by Government of Karnataka, three ex-officio members and one member elected by the Karnataka Medical Council. The total number of registered pharmacists as on date with KSPC is 35, 991.

It is the first council to have all the technical data computerized and also to appoint pharmacy inspectors under section 26(A) of the Pharmacy Act, 1948. The Council has issued identity cards to all practicing pharmacists, launched community pharmacy programmes and continuing education programmes for pharmacists. The Council gives financial assistance to registered pharmacists to go abroad for workshops or for paper presentation. Karnataka Registered Pharmacists Welfare Trust (KRPWT) has launched a scheme to provide financial security to the survivors of the registered pharmacists in Karnataka, in the event of death of pharmacist. This scheme has been extended to seriously ill pharmacists. This is a first of its kind scheme in the country 'for the pharmacists by the pharmacists'. Already 14, 800 registered members are under the scheme.

What is the status of KSPC's Drug Information Centre ?

The Drug Information Center (DIC) was established in August 1997 to disseminate unbiased drug information to healthcare professionals. DIC is registered with IRDIS, (International Register of Drug Information Services). It conducts training for doctors and pharmacists in rational use of drugs.

We have compiled a training manual in collaboration with Karnataka State Aids Prevention Society to educate government pharmacists on HIV/AIDS. Other publications by KSPC include Hand Book of Pharma SOS, Drugs Usage in Special Population - Pregnancy & Lactation, Drugs Usage in Special Population - Pediatrics & Geriatrics and Pharmacist for Tobacco Free Future.

What are the latest developments at the Karnataka Pharmacy Council?

KSPC is planning to start a comprehensive health insurance scheme for registered pharmacists and their dependents with a minimum contribution. The Indian Medical Association will act as nodal agency to promote this scheme.

Do you think it is necessary to introduce professional fee for pharmacists?

The Government should implement this suggestion from the PCI. This is prevalent in advanced countries like US, UK, Australia, UAE etc. Many small countries have also introduced the scheme. Professional fee is meant as prescription handling charges and this would oblige the pharmacists to provide guidance to patients on dosage of drugs and counseling, besides increasing their responsibility.

Are there any new programmes for the Pharmacy councils in the country in association with WHO?

Earlier in 2000 they had conducted continuing pharmacy education programme for hospital and community pharmacists in collaboration with many pharmacy colleges. This was funded by WHO. But currently there are no such programmes.