The proposed comprehensive revision of the Pharmacy Act 1948, proposed by the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) to upgrade the standards of pharmacy profession in the country to international levels, is likely to be soon considered by the Union Cabinet for its approval.

The Union Health ministry, which reviewed the proposed changes, has prepared a cabinet note with its suggestions and is in the process of bringing the amendments before the Cabinet, it is learnt.

If the Union Cabinet gives its nod, the amendments could be fast tracked and legislated by December this year or early next year, Dr B Suresh, president, PCI told Pharmabiz.

"Comprehensive amendments like this may take about two to three years normally. Considering the progress so far, I think the amendments could be legislated by next year," said Suresh.

The proposed amendments to Pharmacy Act requires approval of various ministries and the Cabinet nod, and then needs vetting of the Parliament for legislation.

He said PCI had a few rounds of talks with the health ministry officials on the proposals. Attended by various pharmacy associations and ministry officials, a stakeholders meeting to discuss the progress was also held in New Delhi, on July 27, 2006.

The proposed amendment talks about a total revamp of PCI to make it more effective as a regulator of pharmacy profession in the country. Sighting the need for a proper definition of "pharmacy profession" the PCI has drafted a comprehensive definition for "pharmacy profession" to enhance its acceptance and recognition in the society and also prescribes a code of conduct for pharmacists.

Professional fee for pharmacists' services and continuing education programmes (CEP) mandatory for renewal etc. are some of the salient features of the proposals. The comprehensive revamp of the Act is expected to make community pharmacist more responsible and accountable. The PCI proposal is to see that the pharmacist is answerable for any wrong dispensation of drugs. The proposal also aims to revamp the pharmacy education system in the country.