The Tunisian Pharmacists' Union has announced that it will suspend the third-party payment system for beneficiaries of the National Health Insurance Fund (CNAM) starting November 1, 2026. This decision was made due to the CNAM's failure to fulfill its contractual obligations and the lack of practical solutions to ensure the continuity of this service. The union had previously warned of this decision, citing the need to protect the continuity of pharmacy services and maintain their ability to supply medicines.
The union's decision was made after a meeting of its national council on October 27, 2026, and despite waiting for a resolution until the end of the week, no solution was found. The union emphasized that this measure is necessary to ensure the sustainability of pharmacy services, which are facing significant challenges due to the ongoing shortage of medicines and difficulties in supply. The union also highlighted the increasing burden on pharmacists to provide medicines, which requires significant efforts.
The National Pharmacists' Union had informed the CNAM and all relevant parties on October 19, 2026, that it would be impossible to continue with the third-party payment system without respect for contractual obligations and settlement of outstanding debts. The union expressed regret over the potential disruption to healthcare services and emphasized its commitment to finding a solution. The union has since written to the CNAM to coordinate procedures for handling beneficiary files and facilitating access to medicines.
The union cited the increasing financial burden on private pharmacy owners and the lack of regulation of unorganized activities and practices as exacerbating factors in this crisis. The union also expressed concern over the neglect of fundamental issues affecting the profession and the failure to apply laws governing it. The situation may lead to significant disruptions in healthcare services, particularly for CNAM beneficiaries.
The decision to suspend the third-party payment system is expected to have significant implications for healthcare services in Tunisia. The union emphasized its commitment to protecting the interests of its members and ensuring the continuity of pharmacy services. The CNAM has yet to comment on the situation, but the union has called for a resolution to the crisis.
The crisis highlights the challenges facing the healthcare system in Tunisia, particularly in the provision of medicines and healthcare services. The union's decision has sparked concerns over the potential impact on patients, particularly those relying on CNAM benefits. Efforts are underway to find a solution to the crisis and ensure the continuity of healthcare services.
The situation remains uncertain, with the union awaiting a response from the CNAM and other relevant parties. The union has emphasized its commitment to finding a solution and ensuring the continuity of pharmacy services. Key points include the CNAM's failure to fulfill its contractual obligations, the increasing burden on pharmacists, and the potential disruption to healthcare services.
Key points
- The Tunisian Pharmacists' Union has suspended the third-party payment system for CNAM beneficiaries due to the CNAM's failure to fulfill its contractual obligations.
- The decision may lead to significant disruptions in healthcare services, particularly for CNAM beneficiaries.
- The crisis highlights the challenges facing the healthcare system in Tunisia, particularly in the provision of medicines and healthcare services.
