Srinagar, March 3 -- This decision comes in response to widespread non-compliance with prescription norms in public hospitals across Jammu and Kashmir, which has resulted in excessive medication and increased out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

"It is enjoined upon all the Chief Medical Officers and Medical Superintendents of various Govt. Hospitals of Health Department Jammu Division to adhere precisely the directives/guidelines in their respective Districts/Health Institutions," reads a circular issued by DHSJ, a copy of which lies with Kashmir Observer.

The directives as per circular includes that all the doctors to write the prescriptions of patients in capital form so that the patients should know what the drugs they are prescribe...