Dominica passes Pharmacy Act 2024

Dominica’s Pharmacy Act 2024, passed by parliament on Tuesday, intends to increase drug availability, particularly among underprivileged people.

This was according to Health Minister Cassanni Laville, who spoke to parliament.

“This legislation empowers pharmacists by equipping them with resources and recognition that [is] absolutely necessary to deliver critical services, such as vaccination, chronic disease management, and healthcare screening,” he commented. “this legislation aims to improve access to medications, particularly in under-served populations.”

According to him, forming a pharmacy council will define the standards for registration and continuing professional development for pharmacists.

In addition, Laville stated that this Bill aims to improve openness and accountability in the pharmaceutical supply chain.

“By regulating a central sector, we can ensure that medications are safe, effective, and free from counterfeit risks,” he told me.

He said, “Public health initiatives also stand to benefit immensely through this legislation.”

Furthermore, he stated pharmacists play critical roles in campaigns ranging from vaccine drives to education initiatives and illness prevention.

“Moreover, we must encourage innovation within our pharmacy sector,” Laville said.

He stated that the Pharmacy Act of 2024 establishes the basis for implementing technological breakthroughs such as e-prescriptions and digital health platforms, “making our healthcare systems more efficient and patient-centred.”

In addition to improving the housing sector, Dominica also focuses on healthcare, including building various primary health centres across the island and providing more funding to combat NCDs.