The Role of Pharmacovigilance in Enhancing Primary Health Care Practices

Background: Pharmacovigilance plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and efficacy of medicines by identifying, assessing, and preventing adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Despite its importance, underreporting of ADRs by primary health care professionals remains a significant challenge, particularly in resource-limited settings. Aim: This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of primary health care professionals regarding pharmacovigilance and ADR reporting, identify barriers to effective reporting, and recommend strategies to enhance pharmacovigilance practices. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months at Shri Krishna Medical College and Hospital, Muzaffarpur, Bihar. A total of 140 primary health care professionals, including doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, were selected using random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering demographics, awareness, attitudes, practices, and perceived barriers to ADR reporting. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied using SPSS version 23.0 to analyze the data. Results: The mean age of participants was 35.2 ± 8.7 years, with a majority being male (60.7%). While 78.6% were aware of the definition of pharmacovigilance, only 57.1% understood ADR reporting mechanisms. A positive attitude toward ADR reporting was observed in 82.1% of participants, but regular reporting was noted in only 45.7%. Common barriers included lack of time (45.0%), insufficient knowledge (38.0%), and unavailability of reporting tools (35.0%). Statistically significant associations were found between years of experience and knowledge levels (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The study highlights moderate awareness and significant gaps in the practice of pharmacovigilance among primary health care professionals. Although most participants recognized ADR reporting as a professional responsibility, systemic and individual barriers impeded regular reporting. Recommendations: Targeted training programs, simplified reporting processes, and organizational support are essential to improve ADR reporting practices. Enhancing pharmacovigilance systems can significantly contribute to patient safety and the effective use of medicines.