Calls for equal pharmacy standards across Fiji

There are growing demands in Fiji for the implementation of identical safety standards across both public and private pharmacy sectors. This issue gained prominence during public consultations for the review of the Pharmacy Act, where pharmacists emphasized that patients should receive consistent protection irrespective of their medicine access point.

Pharmacists voiced strong opinions regarding the necessity of registered pharmacists being present and providing adequate supervision at all pharmacy premises. They argue that distinct standards for public and private sectors are unacceptable and pose a significant public safety risk. Concerns were also raised about pharmacy assistants operating pharmacies or dispensaries without proper oversight, leading to potential dispensing errors and the provision of incorrect medications.

Submissions to the review also called for more robust enforcement measures against pharmacies where pharmacists are not on-site. One proposal suggested implementing spot fines for both pharmacists and pharmacy owners, along with the immediate closure of pharmacies found to have committed serious breaches of regulations.

Furthermore, there were appeals for pharmacy inspectors to be granted enhanced powers to enforce the law effectively and take action against repeat offenders. These submissions are currently under consideration as part of the broader review of the Pharmacy Act and its associated regulations. The aim of the proposed changes is to bolster regulatory oversight and ensure consistent safety standards throughout Fiji's pharmacy sector.