Patna: Doctors working in government hospitals across Bihar have been directed to write only generic names of medicines on prescriptions, following new instructions issued by the National Medical Commission (NMC) aimed at improving patient safety and reducing healthcare costs.
Under the order, prescriptions must be written clearly in capital letters, with the use of branded drug names strictly prohibited. The directive applies immediately to major public healthcare institutions in the state, including AIIMS Patna, Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH), Nalanda Medical College and Hospital (NMCH), and Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (IGIMS).
The NMC said the measure was intended to minimise confusion caused by illegible handwriting and brand-driven prescribing practices, ensuring pharmacists can accurately dispense medicines without error. Officials added that patients would benefit from cheaper alternatives, as generic medicines offer the same therapeutic effect as branded drugs at significantly lower prices.
Any complaint regarding the prescription of branded medicines in government institutions will trigger an official inquiry, the commission warned, with disciplinary action to follow if violations are confirmed.
The directive follows observations made by several high courts, including those in Punjab and Haryana, which raised concerns over unclear prescriptions and their role in medication errors. The NMC stressed that illegible or ambiguous handwriting would no longer be accepted.
Healthcare experts have welcomed the move, saying it could reduce incorrect dosing, medication mix-ups, and unnecessary financial burden on patients. Pharmacists, meanwhile, are expected to play a key role in ensuring medicines are correctly identified and dispensed.
The commission also instructed medical colleges and hospital administrations to ensure doctors receive guidance and training where needed to improve prescription clarity.
The policy is expected to be extended soon to district hospitals and other government health facilities across Bihar, marking a significant shift towards transparency and affordability in public healthcare.
