Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu,(DD): In a major step to improve healthcare standards, the Directorate of Health Services (DHS) Jammu has issued strict guidelines instructing doctors across government hospitals to ensure legible, clear, and standardized prescriptions.
The directive mandates that all prescriptions be written in capital letters and include the patient’s diagnosis, drug details, and follow-up instructions. Additionally, doctors must prescribe medicines using their generic names rather than brand names, ensuring affordability and accessibility for patients.
This move comes after reports of patients facing difficulties due to illegible handwriting on prescriptions, leading to cases of misinterpretation by pharmacists and medication errors.
A senior DHS official stated, “Patient safety is our priority. Writing clear prescriptions will prevent confusion, ensure correct medication usage, and promote cost-effective healthcare.”
The circular also applies to medico-legal reports, requiring forensic and medical documentation to be written in clear, capital letters.
While some doctors have raised concerns about the additional time required to comply with these norms, healthcare professionals largely support the initiative, recognizing its potential to reduce prescription-related errors and improve patient care.
Pharmacists and medical staff have welcomed the move, with many stating that clear prescriptions will enhance efficiency and minimize risks associated with incorrect drug dispensing.
The DHS has warned of strict action against non-compliance, emphasizing that these measures align with national medical regulations to standardize prescription practices.
Patients in Jammu have expressed optimism, hoping that the initiative will make medical treatment safer and more accessible in the long run.(DD)