Dominica has officially enacted its Pharmacy Act 2024, a landmark legislation aimed at enhancing drug accessibility, especially for marginalized communities.
Health Minister Cassanni Laville shared this significant development in parliament, emphasizing the act’s potential to revolutionize pharmaceutical services.
“This legislation empowers pharmacists by providing essential resources and recognition required to deliver critical services such as vaccinations, chronic disease management, and healthcare screenings,” Laville stated. “The goal is to improve access to medications, particularly for underserved populations.”
He further explained that the establishment of a pharmacy council will set standards for pharmacist registration and ongoing professional development.
Additionally, Laville highlighted that the new law aims to enhance transparency and accountability within the pharmaceutical supply chain.
“By regulating this key sector, we can guarantee that medications are safe, effective, and devoid of counterfeit risks,” he noted.
The Health Minister also remarked, “Public health initiatives will greatly benefit from this legislation.”
Laville underscored the crucial role pharmacists play in various public health campaigns, from vaccination drives to educational programs and disease prevention.
“We must foster innovation in our pharmacy sector,” he added.
The Pharmacy Act of 2024 lays the groundwork for technological advancements such as e-prescriptions and digital health platforms, enhancing the efficiency and patient-centeredness of healthcare systems.
In conjunction with improving healthcare, Dominica is committed to developing its housing sector and is investing significantly in various primary health centers across the island to combat non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
