The e-pharmacy sector in India and Kenya is rapidly growing, with researchers from The George Institute for Global Health, Strathmore Business School in Kenya, and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine conducting a study to explore this trend. Their findings, published in PLOS Global Public Health, emphasize the need for a robust regulatory framework to ensure consumer safety and quality of care in these evolving markets.
E-pharmacies allow consumers to purchase prescription medicines through websites and mobile apps, catering to the needs of low- and middle-income countries like India and Kenya. The research team assessed the e-pharmacies operating in these countries, reviewed their online platforms, and aligned them with existing regulatory requirements and international best practices to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
One key finding was that a high percentage of e-pharmacy websites in India and Kenya provided the option to upload prescriptions, safeguarding against unauthorized sales of prescription medicines. However, there were opportunities for enhancement, particularly in providing comprehensive drug information to enhance consumer safety and confidence. The study revealed that a significant number of e-pharmacies lacked detailed drug information such as side effects, drug interactions, and contraindications.
In India, where specific e-pharmacy regulations are still under development, websites with higher visitor traffic demonstrated better compliance with proposed regulations. On the other hand, Kenya already has established regulations for e-pharmacies, with websites meeting a higher average of regulatory requirements. The researchers recommended a “risk-based” regulatory framework to foster collaboration between regulators and compliant e-pharmacies, promoting safety, quality, and accessibility of medicines.
Furthermore, the study highlighted the trend of e-pharmacy platforms offering teleconsultations with doctors and diagnostic services, reflecting the integration of digital healthcare services. With the global e-pharmacy market projected to grow significantly in the coming years, countries like India and Kenya are positioned to play a pivotal role in this expansion.
As the e-pharmacy landscape evolves, policymakers are urged to develop regulations that govern the growth of e-pharmacies and safeguard consumers. Dr. Gautam Satheesh, a research fellow at The George Institute for Global Health, emphasized the potential of e-pharmacies to become trusted sources for patients to access prescribed medicines, addressing the challenge of ensuring continuous access to high-quality and affordable medications in countries like India and Kenya.
Overall, the research provides valuable insights for shaping regulatory frameworks that support the growth of e-pharmacies while prioritizing consumer safety and healthcare quality. By implementing effective regulations, e-pharmacies can serve as vital tools for improving access to essential medicines and advancing public health outcomes in the digital era.
