UNDERSTANDING PATIENT PERSPECTIVES ON GENERIC MEDICINES: EVIDENCE FROM A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY IN JAIPUR

Background: Generic medicines are a key strategy for improving healthcare affordability and access, particularly in India, where out-of-pocket expenditure remains high. Despite policy initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana, patient acceptance and utilisation of generic medicines remain inconsistent. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of patients regarding the use of generic medicines in Jaipur and to examine the association of KAP scores with selected demographic variables. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 patients using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, independent-samples t-tests, and one-way ANOVA to assess associations between KAP scores and demographic factors. Results: Patients demonstrated moderate to good knowledge of generic medicines (mean knowledge score: 7.15 ± 3.12); however, attitudes (6.42 ± 2.94) and practices (5.85 ± 1.82) were comparatively lower, indicating a knowledge–practice gap. Higher educational status and urban residence were significantly associated with better knowledge scores (p < 0.05). In contrast, practice scores were significantly higher among rural participants (p < 0.001). Knowledge and attitude scores were not significantly associated with age, gender, or employment status. Concerns regarding quality, therapeutic effectiveness, and availability remained prominent barriers. Conclusion: Although awareness of generic medicines was satisfactory, this did not consistently translate into favorable attitudes or optimal practices. Targeted patient education, strengthened healthcare provider engagement, and improved availability are essential to enhance the rational use of generic medicines.