‘Sweeter’ pills to swallow
The Health Ministry is moving towards making companies declare the prices of drugs. The plan not only promotes transparency and consistency in pricing but allows consumers to make better choices when buying medicine. However there are concerns that some
PETALING JAYA: The move to register medicine prices in a central database, and have recommended retail pricing displayed on product packaging as a consequence, is long overdue as inconsistency in pricing is commonplace.
Malaysian Pharmaceutical Society president Amrahi Buang said: “The most important and relevant point is to be fair to the public. They deserve to have this information.”
He added that the price list would help improve transparency and prevent the cost of medicine being marked up as it moves through the value chain.
“Along the chain, some party may be profiteering with no benefit to the rakyat.
“There must also be transparency in itemised billing for professional fees and for each medication supplied,” he added.
He said the society, which represents more than 5,000 pharmacies nationwide, is working closely with the relevant ministries on the matter.
He also hoped that the proposed law would be tabled in Parliament soon.
Pharmaceutical Association of Malaysia president Chin Keat Chyuan said the association was working closely with the ministry towards encouraging transparency in pricing.
“We are committed to working together with key stakeholders for better health and quality of life for all in Malaysia,” he said.
The association, he noted, has 41 members, comprising mainly innovative pharmaceutical companies operating in the country.
Disclosing product prices is a good move because consumers have different levelss of spending power.
Mohd Yusof Abdul Rahman
Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations ( Fomca) vice-president Mohd Yusof Abdul Rahman said the price list would benefit consumers.
“Disclosing product prices is a good move because consumers have different levels of spending power. If prices are disclosed, then they can buy according to their means,” he said.
On the possibility of patients opting for the cheapest medicine, which may not be of the best quality, Mohd Yusof said it would not be much of a problem for over-thecounter medicines.
For chronically ill patients such as those with diabetes or high blood pressure, he said they are treated with prescription drugs and so should consult their doctors before opting for cheaper alternatives.
“Maybe these patients can buy their medicines from pharmacies based on the active ingredient advised by their doctor,” he said.
When buying medicine at the pharmacy, patients could always consult pharmacists on the best medicine based on their budget, he added.