Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) has inspected as many as 843 institutes during the financial year of 2009-10 and as many as 11 cases were rejected while approval of 80 new degree and diploma institutes were extended.

As per the information submitted by the PCI with the Health Ministry, the body said it had taken several steps to improve the quality of education in the pharmacy sector. Regulation relating to course curriculum of M Pharm has been prepared laying emphasis on theoretical knowledge, practical, clinical skills, thesis skills, communication skills and training in research methodology, it said.

Similarly, B Pharm regulation has also been drafted by the PCI prescribing quality assurance, validation procedures for equipment and techniques, good manufacturing practices and other skills, as part of course curriculum. Under the continuing education programme, eight refresher courses were held during the last academic year.

Course curriculum for the six-year Pharm D course which was already announced includes clinical aspects of medicines, patient safety, psychosocial social aspects of medicine, patient counselling besides linkage to professional experience in the hospitals and community pharmacy, according to the PCI.

Out of the total 843 institutes inspected during the year, 11 cases were rejected on different grounds. Eight institutes were advised not to make admissions while four institutes issued notice for withdrawal of approval. Approval of 80 new degree and diploma institutes was extended while 32 new diploma and degree institutes were granted approval. A total of 16 new Pharm D institutions were given approval during the year.