Omnichannel generic pharmacy retail chain and a community women micro-entrepreneurs network
Dawaa Dost is an omnichannel pharmacy retail chain specializing in branded generic medicines. It addresses the challenges of limited access to high-quality and affordable medicines, as well as the issue of non-adherence to prescribed medication regimens. The enterprise achieves this by providing genuine and affordable medicines in rural areas and tier 2 and 3 cities through its physical stores (Dawaa Dost stores) and a network of community-based women entrepreneurs (Dawaa Didis). Their comprehensive solution ensures the delivery of affordable generic medicines to people. Dawaa Dost also has an e-learning platform named ‘Medwiki,’ which employs voice support in regional languages to raise awareness about affordable generic medicines, proper dosages, and usage instructions and sends these messages through a telephonic reminder service called ‘Karma Dost’ to enhance treatment adherence.
Dawaa Didis are empowered to order medicines in the villages, significantly improving medicine accessibility in rural India. The model operates on a mutually beneficial basis, with SHGs engaged in income-generating activities, while patients benefit from affordable medicines, which are conveniently delivered to their doorsteps or villages.