The All India Government, Private & Public Sector Pharmacist Association (AIPA) has introduced the Charter of Six Rights in Pharmacy to improve medication safety and ensure pharmacists possess current knowledge regarding correct medication administration. Released on Pharmacists Protection Day (February 22, 2025), the initiative seeks to minimize medication errors and enhance patient care.

Key Highlights:
Charter of Six Rights in Pharmacy Presented by AIPA
The six fundamental principles are:

• Right Patient – Confirming patient identity to avoid drug errors.

• Right Medication – Prescribed drugs should be suitable for the patient's condition.

• Right Dose – Giving the correct dose according to age, weight, and medical history.

• Right Route – Delivering the medicine through the appropriate route (oral, intravenous, etc.).

• Right Time – Ensuring therapeutic effectiveness by taking the medicines at the right time.

• Right Documentation – Documentation of dispensing information, side effects, and patient counseling for safety and legal purposes.

Government Pharmacy Store Upgrades in 31 Districts
AIPA is calling for government pharmacy store upgrades in primary health centres (PHCs), community health centres (CHCs), and government hospitals.
These centers need to be upgraded to new standards to enhance drug availability and patient safety.

Pharmacists' Role in Public Health Strengthened
Pharmacists are medication specialists who serve as a link between physicians and patients.
Their extended role involves:

• Giving necessary patient counseling on drug use.

• Detection of adverse drug effects and toxic interactions.

• Administering vaccinations and performing health screenings.

• Assisting in chronic disease management for diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.

Quotes from Officials:
Dr. B.S. Desai, National President, AIPA:
These Six Rights in Pharmacy are the bedrock of drug safety and patient-focused care. Pharmacists and healthcare providers are required to enforce these standards in order to reduce mistakes, maximize treatment success, and promote public confidence in the healthcare system."The Six Rights Charter is a landmark move toward consolidating India's pharmacy community and ensuring safer drug practices. Pharmacists, with their prime position in public health, have AIPA's move highlighting upgraded infrastructure in the healthcare sector, enhanced training of pharmacists, and tighter controls on best practice compliance.