15.05.12
MPs warn of medicine shortages
Patients in England are facing shortages of some medicines, according to the All Party Pharmacy Group of MPs. This is mainly due to drugs being bought cheaply within the UK and then sold at higher prices elsewhere in Europe, they warn.
The MPs investigated shortages which have caused difficulties recently. At any one time there are between 30 and 40 medicines in short supply; including medication for cancer and treatment for Parkinson’s disease.
Kevin Barron, Labour MP and chairman of the group, told the BBC: “We understand they’re manufacturing 20% to 30% over and above whatUKpatients need. But sadlyUKpatients aren’t getting the drugs in a timely fashion before they’re sent abroad and that’s the issue.”
The report calls for Government to consider legally restricting the export of medicines on the grounds of protecting public health. At the moment, this is wholly legal and significantly higher prices abroad mean that pharmaceutical companies can make a profit.
The Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee, Pharmacy Voice and the Royal Pharmaceutical Society backed the call for tougher action in a statement.
“The evidence compiled by the APPG reinforces the views of all pharmacy bodies, that delays to the supply of medicines to patients cause distress, risk patient harm and are unacceptable. Pharmacists across theUKconsistently work hard to ensure medicines reach patients promptly.”
The Department of Health stated it will consider the report carefully.
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