Department of Health Research signs MoU with NIHCE
The MoU between Department of Health Research and NIHCE provides the framework for strategic and technical cooperation between the two countries with an aim to (i) bring modern health technology to people by encouraging innovations; (ii) translate these innovations into products/processes by facilitating evaluation; (iii) introduce the aforesaid innovations into public health service. The two countries will also exchange institutional expertise and experience on clinical trial guidelines, quality standards, application of health technology assessment and implementation of the decisions of the assessment into clinical policy and practice. They will also explore the opportunities for collaborative research projects in clinical policy and practice.
PSA view - This is a good collaborative step towards healthcare policy making and facilitating innovations. This strategic and technical collaboration will benefit the Indian healthcare system to a greater extent.
Ranbaxy under scanner of Drug Controller General of India
Drug Controller General of India ("DCGI") Dr. G. N. Singh has said that all approvals given to Ranbaxy drugs in India are in order and there is no violation of Indian laws. However, he added that the matters including grant of approvals in the past to Ranbaxy are under scrutiny. He stated that the most important concern of DCGI is to assure the safety and efficacy of the drugs in India and that, if found guilty, action will be taken not just against Ranbaxy but other companies as well. This is in the wake of recent allegations being faced by Ranbaxy in the U.S for selling adulterated drugs, originally manufactured at its plants in Dewas (Madhya Pradesh) and Paonta Sahib (Himachal Pradesh).While the company continues to assert that its drugs meet all regulatory standards, a few hospitals and pharmacies like Mumbai-based Jaslok Hospital has banned all medicines supply from Ranbaxy and country-wide chemist chain Apollo Pharmacy has announced taking a cautious stance on Ranbaxy drugs.
PSA View - Ranbaxy must make efforts to show its commitment towards the highest standards of quality in its operations and compliance. It should approach its investors and consumers and assure them that the drugs are safe. Meanwhile, till the time DCGI gives a clean chit, one should refrain from prescribing/using Ranbaxy drugs.
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