SHILLONG: 12 September 2023 (PTI Source)
In the heart of Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills district, a distressing incident has sent shockwaves through the community. A vigilant mother, whose identity remains undisclosed, made a disconcerting discovery in antibiotic tablets prescribed for her 12-year-old daughter by Pomlum PHC doctors. Two nails, of all things, were found lurking inside two out of the ten amoxicillin tablets provided by the health center.
With a heavy heart, the concerned mother wasted no time reporting this alarming find to the PHC authorities. Her plea was simple but urgent: to hold those responsible for this grave misconduct accountable.
In response to this distressing revelation, Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh took swift action. She swiftly assembled a medical team of seasoned specialists and a dedicated drug inspector from the department. Their mission is to validate the claims and unearth the truth behind this unsettling event.
Upon reaching the PHC, a startling revelation emerged. The purported nail, which was allegedly concealed within the capsule, turned out to be larger than the capsule itself. Minister Lyngdoh pointed out that this discovery casts doubt on the authenticity of the complaint.
To ensure the safety of others, thorough inspections of capsules in other medical facilities were carried out, but thankfully, no similar complaints surfaced
In the event of grievances regarding medical stores, individuals are encouraged to reach out to the respective State Drug Control Departments, also known as the Food and Drug Administration in some states. These departments issue licenses and are responsible for addressing complaints related to medical stores. They also take legal action when there is suspicion of substandard, counterfeit, adulterated, or spurious drugs.
Concerning the conduct of pharmacists, any formal complaints about professional misconduct can be directed to the Pharmacy Council of India or the relevant State Pharmacy Council. These bodies are tasked with taking disciplinary action in response to such grievances.