Good News for PharmD Graduates in India : Guess what??

Dear Readers, Thank you for blogging with us..!!!

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.

1. All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi.
2. National Institute of Medical Statistics (NIMS), New Delhi
3. National Health Systems Resource Centre (NHSRC), New Delhi
4. Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI), New Delhi
5. Institute of Economic Growth (IEG), New Delhi
6. Indian Institute of Health Management Research (IIHMR), Jaipur
7. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mumbai
8. National AIDS Research Institute (NARI), Pune
9. Indian Institute of Public Health (IIPH), Bhubaneswar
10. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Chennai

PharmD graduates were recognised as eligible personnel for the following scientific and technical positions in these projects:

1. Scientist D (Non - Medical) - Rs. 78,000/- per month + HRA
2. Senior Project Officer/ Senior Research Officer - Rs. 78,000/- per month + HRA
3. Research Officer - depends on project
4. Research Associate - depends on project
5. Field Supervisor - depends on project
6. 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.

Happy Blogging...!!!

Clinical Pharmacy In India: Insights in an International Magazine

Dear Readers, Thank you for blogging with us. 

I'm glad to share my interview published in an International Magazine "Leckarnicke Listy" in March 2018. 

Thank you #Dr. Peter Krajcovic, PhD for the interview.

Disclaimer: This interview was originally conducted in a foreign language during my visit to a few European countries and it is further translated to the English version, hence English grammatical errors and vocabulary can be exempted. 

Dr. Deepak Kumar Bandari, PharmD : Short Profile

Thank you for visiting my blog...!!!

Here you can check out my short profile 

Dr Deepak Kumar Bandari, PharmD, (PhD) (Europe)

Current Position: National

1) Project Technical Support - III (Field Investigator) - Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) - National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, India. 

Project: Strengthening the Monitoring of Tuberculosis Elimination in India - District Level Sentenial Survey (DLSS), India.

2) Board of Studies Member - Master’s in Clinical Research and Experimental Medicine, School of Allied and Health Sciences, Malla Reddy University, Hyderabad.

3) Book reviewer - BSP Publications, Pharma Med Press and Kakatiya Publications.

Current Position: International
PhD Researcher and Early Stage Researcher participant
Project: FIP 7 programme of EuroAgeism H2020 project, involving 13 European and Non-European countries.

Early-Stage Researcher (ESR) Participant, Euro Ageism H2020, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Europe.

Thesis: Polypharmacy and comparison of differences in potentially inappropriate prescribing in India, Ethiopia, and European countries.
Projects and Grants handled: 

• Project: FIP 7 programme of EuroAgeism H2020 project, involving 13 European and Non-European countries.

Grant: European Commission, FIP7 program Euro Ageism H2020-764632-MSCA-ITN supported by the scientific group “Ageing and Changes in the Therapeutic Values of Drugs in the Aged”, Charles University, Progress Programme Q42, SVV program 260 417.
Total Finance - 232 422,48 EU (Detailed budget - not disclosed)
EU Consortium: Israel, Czech Republic (CZ), UK, Poland, Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Belgium.
Participating countries: Czech Republic, Serbia, Croatia, Bulgaria, Estonia, Turkey, Spain, Ireland, Belgium, India, Ethiopia.
Collaborating Institutions: Alliance Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland (AL), EMDA – The Alzheimer’s Association Israel (AAI), European Centre for Social Welfare Policy and Research (Euro Centre), National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG), United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and World Health Organization (WHO).

• Project No. START/MED/093

Thesis: Rational geriatric pharmacotherapy, medication errors and clinical pharmacy services in long-term care.
Total Finance - 2,299,968 CZK (Personal cost-1,353,600; Mentor remuneration-40,000; Travel costs-361,000; Training costs- 120,000; Costs of non-investment equipment, materials etc. - 80,000; Overhead costs - 345,368)
Grant: Charles University, Research Unit “Ageing, Polypharmacy and Changes in the Therapeutic Value of Drugs in the AgeD”, United Nations Economic Commission for Europe and World Health Organization, University of Zagreb, Croatia, University of Belgrade.

Previous Positions: National

1) Associate Consultant (Epidemiology and Outcomes Research) - Bridge Medical Consulting Pvt. Ltd, New Delhi. 

2) Team Leader - Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, India.

Project: National Sero-surveillance to monitor the trend of SARS-CoV-2 infection transmission in India.

3) Investigator (Field) - Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis (NIRT), Chennai, India.

Project: National survey for the state-wise prevalence of microbiologically confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis in India.

4) Assistant Professor and Clinical Preceptor: Vaagdevi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Warangal, India. 

No. of Research Publications: 18
Cumulative Impact Factor: 153
Number of Citations: 3000+

h-index: 14; i-10 index: 15 

Awarded grants: Total 7 (International: 6, National: 1)
Achievements: Total 9 (International: 5, National: 4)
My Interviews in Magazines and Newsletters: 3 (International: 2, National: 1)

Scientific presentations: (International: 11, National: 8)
Book reviews: 9 (International: 2, National: 7)
Guest Lectures: Total 3 (International: 1, National: 2)
Editorial member and reviewer: 8
Certification courses: Total 10 (2 - Stanford University, 8 - National and International Organizations)
Countries affiliated: USA, Italy, Poland, Slovak Republic, The Czech Republic, Germany, Hong Kong and 10 other European countries.

International collaborative research: Early Stage Researcher participant in the FIP 7 programme of EuroAgeism H2020 project under Marie-Curie Innovative Network and EU COST Action IS1402 network aimed at describing main prescribing problems in rational geriatric pharmacotherapy in 13 European and Non- European countries (including India and Ethiopia). 

Collaborating Institutions: Alliance: Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland (AL), EMDA – The Alzheimer’s Association Israel (AAI), European Centre for Social Welfare Policy and Research (EuroCentre), National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG), United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and World Health Organization (WHO).

Remarkable Achievements:

1. Award and Position: Early Stage Researcher (ESR) participant in the network of FIP7 EuroAgeism H2020 – ITN project, European Commission.
2. Reviewer: Acknowledged in Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine textbook, 23rd Edition, 2018; Elsevier publishers ISBN: 9780702070280.
3. Personal interview: “I expect the 8-star Pharmacist Concept of World Health Organization will come true in India in the Future” published in an International Magazine “Lekarnicke Listy”, March 2018, Bratislava, Slovak Republic.
4. Best reviewer award: Textbook of Hutchison’s Clinical Methods 23rd International Edition by Michael Glynn &William Drake. Saunders Publishers, UK ISBN: 978-0-7020-4091
5. ERASMUS+ Student Mobility: Internship in various European countries.

A few other Achievements:

1. Award and Interview: Winner of “Ideathon” First Nobel Prize Series in India, Department of Biotechnology, India. Interview entitled “Pharmacist Nobel Prize Series: Science Impacts Lives – The Pride of India”, Indian Pharmaceutical Association – Community Pharmacy Division (IPA - CPD) e-Times 6 (2), March – April 2017.

2. Story of Success (2017): Published by Elsevier, as a part of the budding Medicos National contest.

3. Elsevier Student Ambassador (ESA) and Mentor’ for South Asia from July 2014 to June 2016.

4. Felicitation and award: Special Faculty Achievement Award at Viswambhara Educational Society Silver Jubilee Celebrations, March 2018, Warangal, India.

5. Award: Pharmacy Practice contribution award on World Pharmacist’s Day, 25th September 2017 for the successful delivery of an invited lecture on the Prescriptive role of Clinical Pharmacist in Ambulatory Care at Deccan School of Pharmacy, Hyderabad, India.

Acknowledgement: 

• I thank Prof. Daniela Fialova, PharmD, PhD, BCCP; Chair of the Horizon 2020 EuroAgeism FIP7 program; Head of the University Centre of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University; Department of Social and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University, Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology,1st Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Czech Republic.
• Dr Akshaya Srikanth Bhagavathula, PharmD, PhD; Associate Professor of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, North Dakota State University, United States of America. 
• Prof. Yamsani Madhusudan Rao, M.Pharm, PhD; Director, Vaagdevi group of Pharmacy Colleges, Warangal, India for their valuable guidance and support throughout my career.

 

Research Opportunity in U.S.A: PharmD II to V year Students

As per the information from official sources upon our enquiry it is clear that the students of PharmD II year to V year can apply. 

For more details refer : Official website

Antibiotics and their Side Effects

3 crores could be Yours.. Open to all the Pharmacists

Last 5 Days Remaining! Apply Now for National Bio Entrepreneurship Competition (NBEC) 2019, the destination for India's most exciting bio entrepreneurship ideas and be a part of this annual celebration of bio entrepreneurship in India! Stand to win Rs. 3 Crores in cash prizes and investment opportunities!!! What is more, winners will be mentored by leading industry and investment experts. Prizes are up for grabs during regional qualifiers as well!! And shortlisted applicants will attend a 2 day engaging Boot Camp with one-on-one mentoring sessions, led by experts.

So, if you are a student, researcher, innovator, aspiring entrepreneur, start-up, a small or medium biotech company or someone with a bright idea in any discipline of the Life Sciences, here is your chance to win! 

A poster with detailed information is attached. Also look out for new categories that has been added this year, with a bunch of prizes accompanying it.

Apply Here

Applications close on August 31st, 2019, 6 pm.

For detailed information, please visit our Website

About NBEC: The National Bio Entrepreneurship Competition (NBEC) is organised by C-CAMP as part of the BIRAC Regional Entrepreneurship Centre - BREC, every year to attract, identify, and nurture bio-entrepreneurs across India with path-breaking business ideas for societal impact.

Proposed Amendments in Pharmacy Practice Regulations - 2015

Dear Readers..!!! Thank you for visiting my blog...!!!

Please find the attached document explaining the proposed amendments to the Pharmacy Practice regulations - 2015 by the Pharmacy Council of India. 

Click here

Let us all hope and try our best for their implementation. Thanks to all the leaders who worked hard for this proposal.

Regards,

Dr. Deepak Kumar Bandari, PharmD,(PhD) (Europe),

Elsevier Student Ambassador and Mentor - South Asia.

Winner - Ideathon - Nobel Prize Series -2017.

Pharmacotherapy Lectures: Need your valuable insights

Dear All PharmD's,
Act today for better tomorrow. Need your valuable support and it's important for a better profession for representation.

Since few years, we are striving for the better profession to become equally competent with the western world. In this regard, we had conversations with our Honorable Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi Ji, Central and State Ministries. Our request is accepted and soon the issues of unemployment will be addressed. It is very important for us to even think of the quality of PharmD Education in India.

What have we done till date??
1) We addressed the issue and importance of scholarly research in India and revealed the results for discussion.
2) We addressed the importance of Preceptorship and bedside teaching and discussed with resource persons of American Colleges of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP), USA.
3) We discussed the issue of unemployment with respective state and Central Ministries, certain issues are already represented by the Central Minister J.P. Nadda in the World Health Assembly.
4) We are also a part of various International Organisations and platforms like ACCP, FIP, USAID, WHO, European Nations, South African, Asian and Gulf Nations representing Indian PharmD globally.
5) We are conducting various interactive programmes among countries and are part of Global research representing Indian PharmD.



What is this initiative about??
As Pharmacotherapy is the soul of PharmD it is important to raise our standards to become enough competent. PharmD is highly sophisticated in the West and hence they've developed 114 Specialities and employed 1000's of Clinical Pharmacists. We are ought to be on the same path and improve our professional standards. Hence we need to know our present education system and quality of Pharmacotherapy lectures. Let us know your valuable inputs by just sparing 5 -10 min, we shall invest our time, money and energy to address your inputs at the right platform for better future.

Why do you need to contribute ??
Excellence comes only when you learn from failures. Tomorrow will be better only if we know the mistakes of today. Unless we come forward and express what we are learning, it cannot be improved. If there is no improvement, there will be no employment.

Being a student how can you contribute ??Simply spare 5 -10min and fill your inputs about the Pharmacotherapy lectures in this survey form. We shall scrutinise, analyse and come out by addressing the flaws with valuable suggestions from experts to update ourselves.

Where is the survey form and is it validated ??
Yes, it has been reviewed by experts from 6 countries and here is the link :

https://ap1trial.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7O4gvryLLerxkO1

Thanking you in anticipation. Wish you all the best for you future endeavours.

Regards,
Dr. Deepak Kumar Bandari, PharmD,(PhD) Europe
Elsevier Student Ambassador and Mentor - South Asia
Winner - Ideathon - Nobel Prize Series -2017
For more updates join us on Telegram: @drdeepakbandari

Story of Success - Published by Elsevier

Dear Readers,

Thank you for blogging with us. I'm glad to share my story of success published by Elsevier.Thank you #ElsevierIndia for your kind encouragement. 

Nobel Prize Series : India

I'm elated to share an article published regarding my achievement in Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA) CPD e-times today, Vol 6, Issue 2, page 12. Thanks to Mrs. Manjiri Gharat, for recognising my efforts and encouraging young pharmacists. Credits: Dr. AkshayaSrikanth, the man behind my success, Prof. Y. Madhusudan Rao, the Legend behind my strength.

Case presentation - SOAPME* format

Here is the Case presentation in SOAPME* format highlighting the prescriptive role of Clinical Pharmacist in Ambulatory and Critical care. 

Download Full Presentation Here