[e-drug] Drug prices in Pakistan (2)

["Ronald D. Marrocco" <rmarrocco@comcast.net>]

E-DRUG: Drug prices in Pakistan (2)
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Tauqueer,

You present an interesting scenario that is affecting access to medicines in
Pakistan.  While you indicate that your Ministry of Health has a Drugs
Control Organization, you represent it as non-transparent.  Does Pakistan
have an approved National Drug Policy which regulates registration, quality
and importation guidelines for drugs before they may enter the country?  The
system you present here would pave the way for counterfeit products whereby
the consumer has no idea what s/he is receiving.  If there is an approved
NDP, who governs it?

It seems strange that the regulatory body should be involved in setting
price.  This is a commercial activity ­ particularly in a liberalized
market.  Also, the establishment of your Drug Control Organization should be
discussed in the NDP.  This document should also suggest how the DCO
sustains its activities and where its funding comes from?  Is it completely
government funded?  Does it operate as a parastatal?  Or is it supposed to
be self sustaining?  In any case, there should be complete transparency on
these factors to ensure quality goods and a fair market.  A liberalized
market without guidelines and regulations is breeding ground for quality
failures and serious economic inefficiencies.

Does Pakistan have an Essential Drugs List?  Which body is responsible for
ensuring that it is updated?  Also, is there a central procurement body?
Liberalization can help to improve access by increasing competition and
lowering prices but only if it is managed responsibly.  As you may know, the
WHO has established a series of guidelines for countries to manage their
drug supply interests.  Perhaps a WHO member could make reference to such
documents to assist you in these matters.

Ron Marrocco & Associates ­ RM&A
Medical Technology and International Health Consulting
Boston, Massachusetts   USA
http://www.ronmarrocco.com
  P: 617-680-8411
Email: rmarrocco@comcast.net