Eradication of illicit and illegal pharmacy practices is to be an immediate focus of the Board
Nassau, Bahamas - I am grateful to serve at this pivotal and exciting time in the profession of pharmacy and to lead the pharmacy regulatory body. The past year was filled with new horizons for our profession. The Bahamas won the bid to host the 2013 Commonwealth Pharmacist conference (CPA) and The Caribbean Association of Pharmacist (CAP) where some 60 countries’ pharmacists will assemble on our shores. Several Bahamians were elected to serve in leading offices in both CAP and CPA. A Bahamian student at the University of the West Indies was the recipient of highest GPA award this past year. 14 Bahamians will graduate and obtain their degrees in pharmacy from UWI and by so doing, will increase the number of pharmacists in country considerably. Upgrade in technology in the public sector is taking place and healthy and productive dialogue of Pharmacists with the National Prescription Drug Plan continues as we speak.
In much the same vein, the Council continues to fulfill, refine and redefine its mandate as things unfold. The deeper we have dug in, the more complex our work became and our scope revealed itself to be even more expansive.
A firm foundation has been laid. The regulating of the legitimate entities in the business of pharmaceuticals, the licensed professionals that serve in the industry, clinicians, Doctors, Nurses and Pharmacists involved in the medications administration process is well established. The standards to which we have held licensed stakeholders meets international practice benchmark. The Continuing Education process and Guidelines have been clearly delineated. Inspection of all pharmaceutical facilities is a ongoing work that has to be a perpetual exercise. We commend the compliance of our licensed pharmacies and wholesalers to the Act.
The Council, following a well developed strategic plan must now move its attention to protect our borders with regards to medication entry and exit in our archipelagic nation. The eradication of illicit and illegal pharmacy practices is to be an immediate focal point of the board.
Speaking: Philip Gray R.Ph.
The Council is deeply concerned with the number complaints and concerns being received from our stakeholders, of non compliance to the Act by business operators not registered with the Council. These complaints have come from pharmacy professionals and the general public. Those who choose to encroach on the turf of this noble profession with disregard to law and the impact to patient care must be stopped. The sale of prescription items with no oversight of a pharmacist is unacceptable. The black market sale of pharmaceuticals is an even more dangerous practice.
Such practices by non-pharmacists will be dealt with forthwith and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. We simply cannot ensure that our legitimate stakeholders adhere to the law of the land while non-contributors to the success of the profession maneuver freely without impunity. We vehemently suggest that such activity cease immediately. The compromise to patient care in such scenarios is precarious as best.
The act is very clear on requirements. Any business entity uncertain of the terms for operation should call the council as soon as possible. The Act is available online for perusal. The outright schemes to sell prescription drugs knowing that the acts are illegal hold fines and imprisonment as penalty. We also encourage all wholesale distributor, to ensure that they are satisfied that any establishment that they sell to meet the requirements of the law, even if they appear to be legitimate.
There is a part for us all to play. Should you be aware of anything untoward happening with regard to pharmaceuticals sales you are encouraged to inform the Council verbally and then in writing. Being responsible for governance, the Council will investigate and dismantle as a matter of urgency.
Everyone, clinician or non-clinicians alike functioning in healthcare and the medication administration process must operate within the parameters of the Act and the limitations of their professional boundaries. The Council has been most reasonable to this juncture with ensuring that all with good intent have had adequate time to get their affairs in order.
Everything we will accomplish and hope to achieve is dependent on your support and assistance. We employ you to continue to partner with us, as we are here to serve and protect you the general Public.
