Overview

• The DGHS order dated May 28 requires all central government hospitals to prohibit medical representatives from entering premises and to file action taken reports.
• In-person meetings are banned to prevent undue pharma influence on prescribing practices and reps must now share treatment updates via email or other digital platforms.
• This directive follows the 2024 Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices that banned gifts, travel perks and free samples to healthcare professionals.
• A 2023 National Medical Commission rule mandating generic prescriptions was suspended after the Indian Medical Association and other doctors voiced opposition.
• Institutions such as Safdarjung, Dr Ram Manohar Lohia and Lady Hardinge Medical College have been specifically instructed to enforce the ban and report compliance to the DGHS.