Community-Based Assessment of Perception and Attitude Towards Generic Versus Branded Medicines in Healthcare Settings: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background and Objective: The escalating healthcare costs globally have necessitated cost-effective solutions without compromising quality. Generic medicines offer a promising avenue, but their adoption varies across healthcare systems and is influenced by perceptions of healthcare providers and patients. To assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding generic and branded medicines among community members in Mangalore, and to identify factors influencing these perceptions. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 743 participants was conducted from January to June 2024 across various healthcare settings. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Participants showed generally positive perceptions towards generic medications (mean scores 3.5-4.0 out of 5). Gender was significantly associated with willingness to use generic medicines (χ² = 4.56, p = 0.033). Education levels correlated with attitudes towards generics (F = 5.32, p = 0.005). Multiple linear regression identified gender, education level, and medicine knowledge as significant predictors of perception scores. Knowledge about medicines strongly correlated with both perception (r = 0.35) and attitude scores (r = 0.40). Conclusion: The study revealed generally favorable attitudes towards generic medicines, with education and knowledge playing crucial roles in shaping perceptions. Findings emphasize the importance of enhancing health literacy and involving healthcare providers to promote generic medicine acceptance and use.