The role of pharmacies in the healthcare system is set to expand significantly with the introduction of the Simplifications Bill by the Council of Ministers. This bill, which includes 34 articles, aims to enhance the services provided by ‘service pharmacies’ and maximize their contribution to public health.
The Simplifications Bill introduces 25 measures to simplify and promote the provision of pharmacy services, with a particular focus on the role of pharmacists in public health. One of the key provisions of the bill is the authorization for pharmacists to perform diagnostic tests, similar to the ones carried out during the Covid-19 pandemic. These tests can be conducted in designated areas within the pharmacy premises, ensuring hygiene, confidentiality, and approval from local health authorities.
Furthermore, the pharmacy will now be able to offer a wide range of services beyond the dispensing of medicines. Citizens will have the opportunity to receive vaccines, choose their family doctor or pediatrician, and obtain medications necessary for home care. Additionally, pharmacists will be able to provide telemedicine services, offering medical advice and support to patients, especially in remote areas where access to healthcare may be limited.
The Simplifications Bill also mandates the training of pharmacists who wish to administer vaccines, ensuring high standards of quality and safety for patients. The bill also emphasizes the importance of collaboration between multiple pharmacies to enhance efficiency and provide better territorial coverage for healthcare services.
Overall, the Simplifications Bill reflects a significant shift towards utilizing pharmacies as primary healthcare centers, with an expanded role for pharmacists in promoting public health and improving access to medical care for all citizens.