The e-pharmacy sector in India and Kenya is rapidly expanding, with researchers from The George Institute for Global Health, Strathmore Business School in Kenya, and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine delving into the opportunities and challenges presented by this growth. Their recent publication in PLOS Global Public Health sheds light on the need for a robust regulatory framework to ensure consumer safety and quality of care in these emerging markets.
E-pharmacies provide a convenient platform for consumers to purchase prescription medicines through websites and mobile apps. In India and Kenya, the sector has seen significant growth, adapting to local market needs and regulatory environments. The research conducted by the team involved analyzing the websites and apps of e-pharmacies in these countries, mapping them against existing regulatory requirements and international best practices to identify areas of strength and areas for improvement.
One key finding was that a majority of e-pharmacy websites in India (90%) and Kenya (58%) offer the option to upload prescriptions, a crucial feature to prevent the unauthorized sale of prescription medicines. However, there are opportunities for enhancement, such as providing comprehensive drug information to boost consumer safety and confidence. Currently, only a small percentage of e-pharmacies in both countries offer complete drug information, including side effects, drug interactions, and contraindications.
India lacks a specific regulatory framework for e-pharmacies, although regulations have been proposed in the past. The research revealed that more popular e-pharmacy websites in India tend to exhibit better compliance with best practices or proposed regulations. In contrast, Kenya has established specific regulations for e-pharmacies, with websites meeting a higher average of regulatory requirements.
To address the gaps and build on existing strengths, the researchers advocate for a “risk-based” regulatory framework that encourages collaboration between regulators and compliant e-pharmacies. This approach aims to support best practices, improve compliance, and promote safety and quality while enhancing the accessibility and affordability of medicines for consumers.
The study also highlighted the increasing trend of e-pharmacy platforms offering teleconsultations with doctors and diagnostic services, reflecting the evolution of integrated digital healthcare services. As the digital healthcare landscape continues to evolve, regulatory frameworks must adapt to address new models of care and the role of technology in the sector.
With the global e-pharmacy market projected to grow significantly in the coming years, emerging markets like India and Kenya are poised to play a pivotal role. A follow-up assessment found a rise in the number of e-pharmacy websites in both countries, driven largely by local businesses.
Dr. Gautam Satheesh, a research fellow at The George Institute for Global Health, emphasizes the potential for e-pharmacies to become trusted sources for patients to access prescribed medicines. The research provides valuable insights for policymakers to develop regulations that govern the growth of e-pharmacies and safeguard consumer interests in these dynamic markets.
In conclusion, the research underscores the importance of regulatory frameworks in ensuring the safety and quality of medicines through e-pharmacies in India and Kenya. By fostering collaboration between regulators and industry stakeholders, policymakers can create an environment that promotes innovation, enhances consumer trust, and improves access to essential healthcare services.
