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Uttarakhand Considers Allowing Pharmacists to Prescribe Medicines Amid Doctor Shortage

In a bid to address the ongoing shortage of doctors in Uttarakhand, the state government is exploring a proposal that would allow pharmacists to prescribe a limited range of medications. This initiative aims to provide immediate relief to patients in remote areas where access to medical professionals is limited. A committee will review successful models from other states before implementation. Meanwhile, the ongoing strike by medical interns is impacting hospital operations, particularly elective surgeries. This article delves into the potential changes in healthcare delivery in Uttarakhand and their implications for patient care.
By Ambika Singh Sep 12, 2026, 12:36 IST

Pharmacists to Potentially Prescribe Medicines



Patients in Uttarakhand's hospitals, which are currently experiencing a shortage of medical professionals, may soon receive much-needed assistance. The state government is contemplating a plan that would enable pharmacists to prescribe a select range of medications. The Directorate General of Health Services is in the process of drafting this proposal. If approved, pharmacists with D.Pharma and B.Pharma qualifications could be authorized to prescribe treatments for common health issues such as coughs, colds, fevers, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and certain respiratory conditions.


Before this initiative is rolled out, the government plans to analyze similar models from other states and is forming a committee for this evaluation. Officials believe that this measure could significantly benefit patients in remote areas where doctors are scarce, allowing them to receive initial medical care.


Addressing the Doctor Shortage

Despite the presence of hospitals in many remote regions of Uttarakhand, the lack of doctors often compels patients to seek treatment elsewhere. Empowering pharmacists to prescribe limited medications could alleviate some of the burdens faced by patients suffering from common ailments—a request that pharmacists have been advocating for. This topic was also discussed in a recent meeting with Health Minister Subodh Uniyal.


Committee to Review Other States' Models

The Health Minister confirmed that efforts are underway to finalize the proposal allowing pharmacists to prescribe certain medications. The Director General of Health Services has been tasked with drafting the necessary documentation. Following this, a committee will investigate the systems in place in states like Assam and Himachal Pradesh. The final decision will be based on the findings of this committee.


Impact of Ongoing Doctors' Strike

In the meantime, the ongoing strike by MBBS interns and postgraduate doctors, who are advocating for increased stipends, is disrupting operations at Doon Hospital. This has resulted in a decline in patient admissions for elective surgeries, with only two surgeries performed in the Orthopedics department and one in the Surgery department on Wednesday. Typically, these departments manage around five surgeries each on regular days.


However, emergency surgeries in the OT, Cath Lab, Ophthalmology, and Obstetrics & Gynecology departments have continued without interruption. Hospital administration reports that patients requiring urgent care are being admitted and treated, while PG doctors and interns remain available in the ICU and emergency departments.


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