The Tunisian Syndicate of Private Pharmacy Owners has announced the suspension of the third-party payment system for social insurance beneficiaries of the National Health Insurance Fund (CNAM), effective November 1, 2026. This decision was made due to the CNAM's failure to meet its contractual obligations and the lack of concrete solutions to ensure the continuity of the service. The syndicate had previously warned the CNAM of the impossibility of continuing the system without respect for contractual commitments and payment of outstanding sums.
The suspension aims to preserve the continuity of pharmacy services and their ability to supply and provide medications to patients. The syndicate notes that pharmacists already face additional efforts due to supply difficulties and persistent shortages. The decision was taken after the syndicate's national bureau, meeting on October 27, 2026, and despite waiting for a resolution until the end of the week. The syndicate had alerted the CNAM and concerned parties on October 19, 2026, of the need to address these issues.
The syndicate also criticizes the increased tax pressure on private pharmacies, the lack of addressing structural problems in the profession, and the non-application of regulatory texts. They also lament the absence of initiatives to regulate unregulated activities and practices. While regretting potential disruptions in healthcare access, the syndicate has written to the CNAM to coordinate the treatment of insured patients' files and facilitate access to medications.
The CNAM's failure to meet its obligations has significant implications for the healthcare system in Tunisia. The third-party payment system allows patients to obtain necessary medications without upfront costs. Without this system, patients may face difficulties accessing essential treatments. The syndicate's decision highlights the need for the CNAM to address its financial obligations and work towards a resolution.
The Tunisian Ministry of Health has not made an official statement regarding the suspension of the third-party payment system. However, the syndicate has assured that it will communicate official information on the modalities of care for insured patients as soon as it is received. The situation may have far-reaching consequences for the healthcare sector in Tunisia, particularly for vulnerable populations relying on the CNAM for medical coverage.
The dispute between the syndicate and the CNAM is not a new issue. The two parties have been at odds over payment and contractual obligations for some time. The syndicate's decision to suspend the third-party payment system is a last resort, aimed at pressuring the CNAM to meet its commitments. The situation requires urgent attention from the relevant authorities to prevent further disruptions in healthcare services.
The suspension of the third-party payment system may have significant consequences for patients relying on the CNAM for medical coverage. The syndicate has taken steps to mitigate the impact, including coordinating with the CNAM to facilitate access to medications. However, the situation remains uncertain, and a resolution is needed to ensure the continuity of healthcare services for vulnerable populations.
Key points
- The Tunisian Syndicate of Private Pharmacy Owners suspends third-party payment system with CNAM due to unpaid debts and unmet contractual obligations.
