Govt Bars Medical Representatives from Central Hospitals to Curb Unethical Pharma Marketing
New Delhi: The Union Government has clarified that medical representatives are not permitted to visit Central Government hospitals, citing the need to curb unethical marketing practices in healthcare settings.
Responding to an question in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers, Anupriya Patel, informed that the restriction has been implemented based on office orders issued by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on May 12, 2023, and May 28, 2025. These directives explicitly prohibit medical representatives from entering Central Government hospitals or directly interacting with doctors.
The government stated that the primary objective behind this move is to prevent undue influence and unethical promotional practices by pharmaceutical companies. Frequent visits by medical representatives were seen as a potential source of biased promotion of drugs and medical devices, which could impact rational prescribing practices.
Addressing concerns regarding the possible disruption in the flow of information about new medicines and medical technologies, the government clarified that alternative channels are already in place. Doctors continue to receive updates on new treatments, diagnostic methods, and procedures through digital platforms such as emails and other online media. In addition, Continuing Medical Education (CME) programmes and medical conferences serve as key avenues for disseminating scientific and clinical advancements.
The government emphasized that this approach aligns with broader regulatory efforts aimed at ensuring transparency and ethical conduct in pharmaceutical marketing. By reducing direct interactions between medical representatives and doctors in government hospitals, authorities aim to strengthen evidence-based medical practice and safeguard patient interests.
The reply further highlighted that these measures are part of ongoing initiatives to regulate the pharmaceutical sector more effectively while maintaining access to updated medical knowledge for healthcare professionals.
According to information presented in the Rajya Sabha, the system of digital communication and professional education platforms is considered sufficient to keep doctors informed without relying on in-person promotional activities.
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