The Sierra Leone Pharmaceutical Business Association (SLPBA) East One Region comprising of Kailahun and Kenema Districts, have met with members of the Pharmacy Board at the Under-5 Clinic Hall at the Government Hospital along Combema Road in Kenema City.
Referring to the position paper on sub-standard drugs, SLPBA President Ethelibent A. Tejan disclosed that his organization recognizes that sub-standard drugs are becoming increasingly widespread in the market and consequently posing the most serious threat to public health. “We note that in spite of the efforts being made by the Pharmacy Board to police the market, the situation does not seem to be getting any better” he said. He stressed that SLPBA would ensure that its members are not involved in dealing with sub-standard drugs. The factors influencing the cost of drugs are also varied and complex. Some of these factors arise from government fiscal and regulatory policies whilst other arises from global market conditions. To minimize the sale and use of substandard drugs and make good drugs more affordable, attention must be given to both external and internal factors. SLPBA will however focus on the policy issues like duties and taxes, service charges, drug registration, shop/premises tax, stock loses, smuggling, market conditions and over regulation.
A member of the board, Mohamed Sesay highlighted the role played by Pharmacy Technicians in years gone by; pointing out that unity is crucial for success. He said plans are under way to open a University and other Institutions for advance courses for members of the Pharmacy Board and to also have quality and clean environments.
By Ophaniel Gooding
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