Cross Sectional Survey Study on Knowledge and Awareness of Consumer Protection Act, 2019 (COPRA) in Post Graduate Students of Ayurveda
Supriya Patwardhan , Anuja Wadadekar , Jayant Phadke , Yogini Kulkarni
1,2,3Department of Agadtantra, P.D.E.A.'S College of Ayurved and Research Centre, Nigdi, Pune, Maharashtra, India-411044
4Department of Dravyaguna, P.D.E.A.'S College of Ayurved and Research Centre, Nigdi, Pune, Maharashtra, India-411044
4aDepartment of Research & statistics, P.D.E.A.'S College of Ayurved and Research Centre, Nigdi, Pune, Maharashtra, India-411044
Corresponding Author: Supriya Patwardhan
E-mail: drsupriyapatwardhan@gmail.com
Submission: 05.08.2023 Acceptance: 14.08.2023 Publication: 31.08.2023
https://www.doi.org/10.63778/PDEASIJRAAS-ARJCPL/2023_8314
Abstract:
Introduction: Considerable change has been observed in medical practice during last decade affecting healthcare service in both positive and negative aspects. Awareness regarding rights and compensation has increased in patients. For better service providing and prevention of consumer disputes Ayurveda postgraduates must have adequate knowledge and awareness about updates in CPA.
Materials and methods: A questionnaire comprising of 18 questions regarding medico-legal aspects of medical practice and CPA was designed. It was validated. Pilot study was conducted in 23 students. After analysis and inputs from 5 experts from the field of Law, statistics, Research and Agadtantra questionnaire was revised. Questions were allotted points. According to the score, awareness level grading was decided prior to conducting survey.
Results: Total of 110 postgraduate students of Ayurveda from various faculty participated in the survey. Responses were received from various Ayurvedic teaching institutions all over India. All participants were aware that CPA is applicable to healthcare professionals. 31% participants had good awareness regarding CPA, whereas 64% had moderate awareness. Awareness regarding process of filing, punishment and appeal was lacking among the participants. Only 36% participants were aware about the concept of frivolous complaint. Other participants were unaware about the concept of frivolous complaints.
Conclusions: It was observed in our study that many participants were aware about Medico legal aspects relevant to clinical practice, but awareness regarding updates in CPA was lacking. To cope up with upcoming changes in global scenario and consumer awareness regarding their rights, Ayurved practitioners should update their knowledge through continuing education like workshops, seminars or CME on medico-legal aspect of practice.
Key Words: Awareness, Consumer Protection Act, Medico Legal, Questionnaire