The Tunisian Pharmacists' Union has issued a new appeal due to persistent disruptions in the availability of medicines and challenges in obtaining supplies from the Central Pharmacy. In a statement released after their ordinary general meeting, the union emphasized that ensuring the availability of medicine and its continuous delivery to citizens must remain a top priority. The union also called for the resumption of full digitalization between the Central Pharmacy and private pharmacies.
The union's president, Zbeir Krika, stressed the need for transparent mechanisms to inform private pharmacy owners about developments in Tunisia's pharmaceutical system, particularly during the ongoing medicine shortage crisis. He noted that the current situation is affecting both locally produced and imported medicines, which could have a tangible impact on Tunisian citizens who sometimes struggle to access both generic and imported medicines.
Krika attributed the difficulties in obtaining medicines to several factors, including the inability of the Central Pharmacy to meet the needs of private pharmacies due to a shortage of liquidity and accumulated debts. He also mentioned that the recent disruptions in the supply of locally produced medicines are linked to issues in the local pharmaceutical industry, such as a fire at a medicine manufacturing laboratory and difficulties in obtaining raw materials.
The union highlighted the importance of maintaining the healthcare coverage system, which they consider a social gain for citizens. They stressed that its sustainability requires respect for mutual commitments, and that irregular payment of pharmacy dues and exceeding contractual deadlines directly affect their ability to fulfill their obligations to medicine suppliers and continue providing treatment.
The union called for the establishment of regular, transparent monthly transfers and the settlement of outstanding dues to ensure the availability of medicine and the sustainability of the contractual relationship. They also urged the application of the law and stricter control over all channels of distribution of veterinary medicines, health materials, and combating all forms of promotion outside legal frameworks.
The current situation has led to concerns about a potential crisis, with the union warning of a catastrophic scenario if the issues are not addressed. The union's appeal highlights the need for urgent action to resolve the medicine shortage crisis and ensure the continued availability of essential medicines for Tunisian citizens.
The crisis has significant implications for the healthcare system in Tunisia, and the union's demands are aimed at finding a solution to the current challenges. The situation requires close attention from the authorities and stakeholders to prevent a worsening of the crisis and ensure that citizens have access to the medicines they need.
Key points
- The Tunisian Pharmacists' Union has warned of a potential crisis due to ongoing medicine shortages and difficulties in obtaining supplies.
- The union has called for the resumption of full digitalization between the Central Pharmacy and private pharmacies to improve transparency and efficiency.
- The crisis has significant implications for the healthcare system in Tunisia, and urgent action is needed to resolve the medicine shortage crisis.
