Impact of Drug Information Centers on Healthcare Outcomes: A Narrative Review of Pre- and Post-implementation in South Asian Countries
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Drug Information Centers (DICs) play a vital role in the provision of accurate, reliable, and updated information on medications to healthcare professionals as well as the general public. These centers are now taking a step forward in the healthcare field. This narrative review aimed to analyze the evolution and impact of DICs on South Asian countries, such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Furthermore, it also discussed the role of DICs in healthcare as well as the barriers in the establishment of such services in developing countries. The established DICs in these South Asian countries improves rational drug use and enhances patient safety even though there are significant challenges to establish and expand these centers in South Asia. The DICs established in India, Nepal, and Pakistan have significantly contributed in the enhancement of patient safety and rational use of medications. However, there are challenges in establishing DICs in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Innovative strategies, such as telemedicine services and collaboration with healthcare institutes, academics, and regulatory authorities would expand the services of DICs across South Asia.
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