A survey of knowledge and practices in generic prescribing among doctors in Kurunegala district, Sri Lanka

Generic prescribing is promoted by most governments and insurers as a measure of reducing health care cost. Doctors are key players health care provision and powerful deciders in drug market. The practice of doctors in prescribing is critical in determining both clinical and economic efficiency and effectiveness of a health system. The study was questionnaire based and conducted in Kurunegala district in Sri Lanka with the participation of government doctors. It was revealed that most doctors were engaged in generic prescribing and they had a satisfactory knowledge regarding the concept. Practice of generic prescribing among doctors was not significantly associated with their work experience, gender, engagement in private practice or post graduate qualifications. It was depicted that the promotional visits by representatives of pharmaceutical companies mainly focused at doctors who did part time private practice. Yet it was claimed that most doctors did not consider brand name when purchasing drugs for their practices.