Opposition to proposed changes for pharmacies

SOUTH African pharmaceutical professionals are up in arms due to proposed changes in new pharmacy guidelines.

The SA Medical Association (Sama) is opposing the proposed changes that will allow pharmacists to provide guidelines and give diagnoses as well as prescribe medication to patients.

In a statement, Sama raised concerns on broadening the role of pharmacists.

“Pharmacists are not educated, trained or experienced in treating patients,” Sama said.

Sama has expressed its dismay in a written submission to the SA Pharmacy Council.

Sama chairperson Angelique Coetzee doubts that pharmacists have the acquired skills to diagnose and treat patients in fields such as reproduction and sexual health.

“What is being proposed falls far outside the scope of pharmacy and squarely within the scope of general and certain specialist medical practices,” Coetzee said.

Coetzee questioned what would happen in cases of misdiagnosis.

Sama is also concerned with the rights of patients who have an expectation to be treated by persons who are adequately qualified and experienced.

“Allowing pharmacists to compete with general practitioners and others, whilst not having the necessary qualifications and registration – presumably at much lower rates – can only be described as unfair competition,” Coetzee added.

Sama said issues with the amendments will be addressed with stakeholders which include the SA Pharmacy Council and the Department of Health in order to protect the public.