The PGEU proposes, among other things, fuller use of pharmacists' competencies, a common definition of drug shortages in the EU, detailed reports from laboratories, and better coordination and distribution of drugs between countries.
At the meeting in Amsterdam, delegates said the situation was causing "frustration and stress" among pharmacists and placing "additional administrative burdens" on them. According to the PGEU, by 2023 every pharmacy in the European Union spent an average of 10 hours a week managing shortages, three times more time than just a decade ago.
To address this, pharmacists want "effective policy measures" that will strengthen supply continuity and effectively mitigate shortages. Among other things, the PGEU proposes full use of pharmacists' competencies, a common definition of shortages across the Union, detailed reports from laboratories, solidarity and coordination among member states, and improved supply chain security by promoting domestic production.
The meeting also discussed the importance of patient information leaflets, the challenges of digitizing pharmacies, and the future of pharmacy services.
In addition to the PGEU General Assembly in June, a symposium was held in which the European Association of Physicians (CPME) also participated. During the joint meeting, the two professions (pharmacists and physicians) discussed shortages of drugs and medical products and the increasing shortage of specialists.
Source: NIA
