Question : SMS-based Service

Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:

(a) whether the Government proposes to start an SMS-based service that will enable patients to know the affordable alternatives of medicines prescribed by doctor and if so, the details thereof;

(b) the time by which the said service is likely to be started; and

(c) whether patient is required to consult the doctor before purchasing the suggested affordable alternative medicines under the said scheme and if so, the details thereof?

ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND
FAMILY WELFARE
(SHRI ASHWINI KUMAR CHOUBEY)

(a): No. However, National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) under Department of Pharmaceuticals has launched a mobile app named as “Pharma SAHI DAM” for the benefit of the common people of India through which anybody can easily search the brand name, composition, and MRP of the formulation and information of other brands having same composition. This app also shows the notified ceiling price of scheduled formulations.
(b) & (c): Does not arise.
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