The People’s Movement for the Rights of Patients (PMRP) yesterday again urged Health Minister Nimal Sripala de Silva to act fast in presenting legislation for a National Medicinal Drugs Policy so that quality drugs could be made available to all at affordable prices. Speakers at the PMRP’s annual general meeting also urged the Minister to expedite legislation for the implementation of a Patients’ Charter and a Constitutional Amendment to make health a fundamental right of the people.
The Minister has repeatedly promised legislation on these key issues would be introduced soon, to strengthen the health service and ensure that well being of patients is given top priority.
An 18-member National Standing Committee appointed to work out legislation for a National Medicinal Drugs Policy has handed over the final draft to the Minister.
Speakers said celebrations and various ceremonies were being held to mark the Minister’s appointment as Chairman of the executive board of the World Health Organisation but it would only be ceremonial post unless practical benefits were given to millions of Sri Lankans who are suffering because of the high the cost of drugs and health-care facilities. In terms of the National Medicinal Drugs Policy, an independent National Medicinal Drugs Regulatory Authority will be appointed. This 12-member Authority comprising eminent medical professionals including professors of pharmacology will review the current process under which about ten thousand varieties of drugs have been registered for import, prescription or sale.The Authority will review and re-reregister drugs on the basis of five factors –quality, efficacy, safety, the cost of the drug and the need for it. Among those present at yesterday’s PMRP meeting were eminent medical personalities such as Professor Carlo Fonseka, Dr. K. Balasubramanium, Dr. Joe Fernando, Dr. L.A.W. Sirisena and Nutritionist Dr. Damayanthi Perera.
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