Implementation of the Anti-Quackery Mandate Punjab Healthcare Commission: Challenges and Limitations

Abstract

Background: Medical quackery is a big challenge forhealthcare system in Pakistan. This menace was particularly widespread in Punjab, where a regulatory body called the Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC) was formulatedin 2010. PHC established an Anti-Quackery Cell with the objective of curbing the spread of quackery in the Province. Aim: To find out the challenges that the Anti-Quackery Cell encountered to control quackery. Method: The current study applied a qualitative research method, with a focus on exploratory research design. A total of 20PHC and Anti-Quackery Cell officials were identified by adopting a purposive sampling technique. An interview guide was used to collect data from respondents. An inductive as well as deductive approach was used to extract themes from the data and generate findings. Results: The findings of the study show that the lack of political and administrative will was the most significant challenge to control quackery in Pakistan. Furthermore, inappropriate staff selection, untrained staff, lack of proper legislation and the deep roots quackery in society were other factors that weaken the capacity of the Anti-Quackery Cell. Conclusion: The study concludes that it is very difficult to successfully curb quackery due to the relevance of the practice with the socio-economic and cultural context of Pakistan. However, proper legislation, professional development of staff and strong political and administrative commitment are the way forward. Keywords: PHC, Quackery, healthcare system