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I'm glad to share this great news with you, upon consistent efforts of the Association for Doctor of Pharmacy (ADP), PharmD Doctor's Welfare Association (PWDA) and all other PharmD associations, since years in India, we have moved way forward in achieving a great milestone in the career path.
Introduction: In recent times, governments around the world have acknowledged the significance of healthcare professionals and the evolving nature of the pharmaceutical industry. As a testament to their commitment to enhancing public health, many governments have taken a commendable step by including Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) as an eligibility criterion for various government positions. This progressive decision not only recognizes the unique expertise possessed by PharmD graduates but also ensures the provision of quality healthcare services to the citizens. In this blog, we will delve into the reasons why this move is worthy of appreciation.
You might have aware that Central Research Institutes/Organizations like the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Department of Health Research (DHR), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India (GoI); Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR); Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB); Department of Science and Technology (DST); Department of Biotechnology (DBT) etc., and autonomous grant-in-aid institutions like Tata Memorial Centre (TMC), Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India (GoI) have offered several temporary scientific positions and fellowships for PharmD graduates considering our clinical and scientific skills. I personally was shortlisted for more than 5 Scientific positions (Scientist-B, Scientist-C, Scientist -D, Scientific Consultant, Associate Consultant) etc., in such research organizations.
Enhancing Healthcare Delivery: The inclusion of PharmD as an eligibility criterion for research and scientific positions demonstrates a proactive approach to improving healthcare delivery. Pharmacists play a crucial role in healthcare teams, acting as medication experts and providing valuable insights into drug therapy. With their specialized training in pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacokinetics, and therapeutics, PharmD graduates possess a deep understanding of drug-related issues and can effectively contribute to medication safety initiatives. By including PharmD graduates in such government positions, their extensive knowledge and skills, enhance the quality of healthcare services, help minimize adverse drug reactions, prevent medication errors, and promote optimal drug utilization, ultimately safeguarding the well-being of the public. The ability of pharmacists to analyze complex medication regimens, manage drug interactions, and offer patient counseling contributes significantly to improving patient outcomes.
Healthcare Policy Development: Government positions often involve policy-making and strategic planning for healthcare systems. Including PharmD graduates in these roles brings a unique perspective to the table. PharmD graduates are trained not only in clinical pharmacy but also in areas such as pharmacoeconomics, health outcomes research, and health policy. Their comprehensive understanding of the pharmaceutical industry allows them to contribute to evidence-based decision-making, drug pricing policies, and healthcare cost containment strategies. The inclusion of PharmD as an eligibility criterion thus enriches the pool of professionals involved in shaping healthcare policies, leading to more informed and effective strategies.
News for today: Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has released a memorandum amending Rule No. 14 and Schedule III of the ICMR, HSRC rules, 2007 communicated by DHR to inlude PharmD as eligibility criteria for various scientific positions along with other graduate and post-graduate qualifications.
- Scientist - B with Pay level 10 (Rs. 56100-177500) Pre-revised GP: Rs. 5400/-
- Scientist - C with Pay level 11 (Rs. 67700-208700) Pre-revised GP: Rs. 6600/-
- Scientist - D with Pay level 12 (Rs. 78800-209200) Pre-revised GP: Rs. 7600/-
- Scientist - E with Pay level 13 (Rs. 123100-215900) Pre-revised GP: Rs. 8700/-
- Scientist - F with Pay level 13A (Rs. 131100-216600) Pre-revised GP: Rs. 8900/-
- Scientist - G with Pay level 14 (Rs. 144200-218200) Pre-revised GP: Rs. 10000/-
The complete document can be accessed through this weblink: HSRC amendment rules - PharmD
Health Technology Assessment in India (HTAIn) and DHR ICMR Advanced Molecular Oncology Diagnostic Services (DIAMOnDS), Department of Health Research (DHR), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). Government of India (GoI) has identified the following institutes as Technical Partners of HTAIn, so far, with a physical target of 125 scientific projects.
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi.
- National Institute of Medical Statistics (NIMS), New Delhi
- National Health Systems Resource Centre (NHSRC), New Delhi
- Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI), New Delhi
- Institute of Economic Growth (IEG), New Delhi
- Indian Institute of Health Management Research (IIHMR), Jaipur
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mumbai
- National AIDS Research Institute (NARI), Pune
- Indian Institute of Public Health (IIPH), Bhubaneswar
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Chennai
PharmD graduates were recognised as eligible personnel for the following scientific and technical positions in these projects:
- Scientist D (Non - Medical) - Rs. 78,000/- per month + HRA
- Senior Project Officer/ Senior Research Officer - Rs. 78,000/- per month + HRA
- Research Officer - depends on project
- Research Associate - depends on project
- Field Supervisor - depends on project
- Field Investigator/ Field Officer - Rs. 30,000 - 32,000/- + HRA
The complete document can be accessed through this weblink: HTAIn ICMR guidelines 2021
Career Opportunities for PharmD Graduates: By recognizing PharmD as an eligibility criterion for scientific positions, governments open up a broader range of career opportunities for PharmD graduates. This move encourages more students to pursue the PharmD program, attracting talented individuals to the pharmacy profession. The availability of government positions creates a positive outlook for aspiring pharmacists and strengthens the profession by acknowledging its significance in public health.
Conclusion: The inclusion of PharmD as an eligibility criterion for government positions is a commendable decision that signifies it's commitment to improving public health. By recognizing the expertise of PharmD graduates and providing them with opportunities to contribute to healthcare policy, medication safety, and interprofessional collaboration, governments pave the way for a more robust and effective healthcare system. This step not only benefits patients but also fosters professional growth, scientific evidence and enhances the role of pharmacists in society. It is imperative to appreciate and support such progressive initiatives that acknowledge the evolving nature of healthcare and the indispensable role of PharmD professionals.
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