Pharmacists Criticize The Decision Not To Issue Private Pharmacy Licenses

16 January 2024 Kuwait

In response to the decision halting licenses for private pharmacies, pharmacists are expressing dissatisfaction, claiming it is both unlawful and poorly thought out. Al-Rai daily reports that the move, which came after the government resigned, is considered arbitrary and harmful to Kuwait's private pharmacy sector.

A number of pharmacists, including Mubarak Al-Ajmi, Farah Sadiq, Khaled Al-Mutairi, and Shaima Abdul-Hussein, have voiced concerns about the decision's legality, asserting that it violates professional standards.

In their view, Kuwaiti pharmacists can obtain licenses under the law provided all conditions are met, and this conflicted with the government's efforts to stimulate the private sector.

In addition to posing risks to pharmaceutical security, pharmacists believe that the decision could have adverse effects on Kuwaiti citizens and pharmacists themselves. Especially in light of ongoing lawsuits where pharmacists affected by closure decisions have won lawsuits against the ministry, they question the rush to implement such measures.

Mubarak Al-Ajmi criticized the decision as unjust and part of a series of arbitrary measures against private pharmacies, noting that 63 licenses were cancelled.

Affected pharmacists' demands for compensation could result in financial repercussions for the ministry.

Farah Sadiq questioned the necessity of such a decision, especially when new legislation is being drafted to regulate pharmacy practice.

It will negatively affect not only Kuwaiti pharmacists but also the entire health sector, she said, urging reconsideration of the decision.

Khaled Al-Mutairi expressed disappointment with the lack of support for the private pharmaceutical industry, calling the decision random and poorly considered.

Due to the ongoing medication supply challenges, he highlighted the adverse effects on pharmacists' ambitions and the potential strain on government sector pharmacies.

The decision was criticized as confusing by Shaima Abdul-Hussein, who questioned the decision's timing in light of ongoing efforts to evaluate private pharmacies.

In her remarks, she highlighted the need for medical services in new residential areas, emphasizing how this would negatively impact Kuwaiti citizens and pharmacists.

A group of pharmacists is urging the Minister of Health to reconsider the decision, emphasizing the importance of supporting and encouraging the private pharmacy sector without jeopardizing pharmacist livelihoods.

A comprehensive study is needed to develop the pharmacy profession while protecting the rights of pharmacy professionals.

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