Crackdown on Pharma Influence: Govt Bans Medical Reps from Central Hospitals
New Delhi: The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has directed all central government hospitals to prohibit the entry of Medical Representatives (MRs) into their premises. The move is being widely viewed as a serious measure to curb undue pharmaceutical industry influence on prescribing practices, and aligns closely with the newly enforced Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP) 2024.
The directive, dated May 28, 2025, mandates that heads of institutions enforce this ban strictly and report compliance to the DGHS.
“This is in reference to the earlier instructions regarding not permitting entry of Medical Representative in hospital premises. In this regard it is once again instructed that the medical representatives should not be permitted in the hospital premises. The head of the institutions shall give necessary strict directions in the matter to all officials,” an order issued by Dr Sunita Sharma stated.
The circular further clarified that pharmaceutical companies must communicate information about new treatments or advances via email or digital media only, thereby limiting the potential for personal interactions that may unduly influence clinical decisions.
“It is requested to take necessary action in the matter and action taken report may be furnished to this directorate,” the directive added.
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“The move is aimed at preventing medical representatives from unduly influencing doctors inside hospital complexes into prescribing medicines promoted by their companies,” an official source told Daily Excelsior.
Crackdown Rooted in UCPMP Enforcement
The ban aligns with the Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP) 2024, implemented by the Department of Pharmaceuticals earlier to replace the previously voluntary 2014 code. UCPMP 2024 mandates strict prohibitions on pharma companies offering gifts, travel, hospitality, or any monetary benefits to healthcare professionals (HCPs) — practices that have long drawn criticism for compromising ethical standards in healthcare.
Under the UCPMP 2024, pharmaceutical companies are required to self-declare adherence to the code and disclose expenditures related to promotional activities. Non-compliance can lead to penalties such as public reprimands, recovery of items given in violation, and mandatory corrective statements in the media.
