The role of education in the rational use of medicines

Abstract

A vital component in promoting the rational use of medicines is awareness of the need for educating all concerned in the correct use of medicines. This publication provides an overview of activities in this area in the WHO South-East Asia Region and the challenges that need to be overcome. Comprehensive and informative, the publication aims to create awareness on the need for improvement in the rational use of medicines through public education, programmes for health professionals, and by integrating the teaching of this topic into general and specialized education programmes. The importance of educating policy-makers, political leaders, planners and bureaucrats is also highlighted. The publication provides a clear roadmap for the future. It includes: General measures such as establishment of a knowledge centre on rational use of medicines, greater use of electronic media and resources for providing education and information. Empowerment of the general public/consumers in the correct use of medicines. Involvement of professional societies and other categories of health personnel such as physiotherapists, occupational health personnel and medical laboratory technologists in addition to doctors, pharmacists and nurses to improve the rational use of medicines, and Involving policy-makers, political leaders, planners and bureaucrats in guiding strategic planning and initiating activities in the rational use of medicines