With 828 medicines currently experiencing supply problems across the country, pharmacies in the region are particularly short of those required to treat anxiety, hypertension, iron deficiency, which is behind many cases of anaemia, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The lack of drugs and the difficulties of economic sustainability of pharmacies, especially in rural areas, have become the most important problems in the sector, which celebrated World Pharmacist Day last Wednesday.
Professionals point out that the underlying problem, which requires profound reform, is centred around the pharmaceutical supply chain.
In addition to the shortage of medicines, pharmacies face economic challenges as they see their ability to generate sufficient income limited. Many pharmacies rely on the sale of unregulated products, such as parapharmacy, orthopedic and optical products. However, competition from large chains and online platforms, which can offer lower prices, threatens the viability of local pharmacies.
