The Supreme Administrative Court has accepted a petition by the Medical Council opposing a project allowing pharmacies to prescribe medications for 16 minor ailments without prior medical consultation. In response, the Pharmaceutical Council issued its third open letter on November 21, clarifying key points raised by the Medical Council's November 19 statement.

Key Highlights:

  1. Project Background and Success:
    The initiative, part of the National Health Security Office (NHSO) program, permits pharmacists to treat minor ailments under strict guidelines. Implemented since October 31, 2022, it has provided 4.98 million consultations to 1.79 million individuals. Reports indicate a 90% symptom improvement rate with no severe adverse outcomes. Cases requiring further medical attention were referred promptly. The program has received high satisfaction ratings from the public.
  2. Pharmacists’ Role and Standards:
    Pharmacists have been dispensing medications for minor illnesses for over 70 years under the Pharmaceutical and Drug Act. The NHSO included this service in its coverage to make healthcare accessible without additional costs for patients. Concerns raised by the Medical Council appear inconsistent, as opposition arises only when NHSO funding is involved, not when patients pay out-of-pocket.
  3. Addressing Accessibility and Equity:
    The letter emphasizes the challenges many citizens face in accessing doctors, especially for minor ailments. The program alleviates these burdens, leveraging pharmacists' extensive training and quality assurance processes to provide safe care and reduce hospital workloads.
  4. Call for System-Wide Safety Improvements:
    The Pharmaceutical Council urges the Medical Council to address systemic issues, such as the lack of detailed labeling in private clinics. Ensuring proper medication oversight in all healthcare settings would enhance patient safety across the board.

The Pharmaceutical Council reiterated its commitment to collaboration with the Medical Council and other healthcare stakeholders, emphasizing mutual respect, patient safety, and professionalism. It called for unity in advancing healthcare accessibility and equity for the public's benefit.