Quality Use of Generic Medicines

The provision of healthcare has traditionally been managed based on the philosophy that, where the patient is concerned, price should not be a hindrance. However, with the global escalating healthcare cost, governments in many countries have adopted ongoing series of cost containment attempts in an effort to spend their limited financial resources efficiently so that equitable access to healthcare can be provided. One of the many ways to control healthcare expenditure is to promote the use of cheaper generic drugs instead of the more expensive branded equivalents and this strategy had been adopted by health authorities in many countries around the globe. The availability of cheaper generic medicines in the global market gives an opportunity for both the government and consumers alike to reduce the cost associated with the use of pharmaceutical products. However, the use of generic medicines is often seen as a contentious issue among majority of consumers and healthcare professionals. This book will give an insight from the Australian persepctive on the improving quality use of generic medicines among population.