A Survey Evaluating Consumers Knowledge, Perception, Awareness and Preparedness about Generic Medicines in Urban Central Gujarat Region

Abstract

The questionnaire based survey study was conducted to understand the perception about the generic medicines in consumer's mind of urban Madhya Gujarat region precisely Vadodara, Dahod and Godhra. It was a questionnaire based survey intended to understand exactly what consumers’ think about generic medicines i.e. quality, awareness and preparedness etc. The results of the study show that the consumers were not so clear and confident about these aspects regarding generic medicines but nearly all were facing the issue of costly medicines. When asked about the government’s latest initiatives like Jan Aushadhi Kendra and Din Dayal Upadhyay pharmacy many were aware about it. Many consumers had heard or read about such stores on TV, Radio and newspapers. Most were happy with such efforts of government and were interested in availing benefits of cheaper medicines. Many were unclear about availing such benefit due to their previous experience which points at the ongoing situation where doctors prescribe medicines which are only available in store in doctor’s hospital premises or nearby medical store. It was the prime concerned and not the quality and efficacy of generic medicines. It was found that consumers were very aware about cosmetics. Something must be done to make the consumers’ more aware and doctors more encouraged about generic medicines. Most of the consumers echoed in one voice that more such stores and efforts are needed.