United Seychelles Party Takes a Stand Against the Proposed Medical Products and Pharmacy Operations Bill of 2023

United Seychelles Party Takes a Stand Against the Proposed Medical Products and Pharmacy Operations Bill of 2023

The United Seychelles Party Stance on Proposed Medical Products and Pharmacy Operations Bill

The United Seychelles Party has taken a firm stance against the proposed Medical Products and Pharmacy Operations Bill of 2023, which aims to prohibit non-pharmacist-owned pharmacies from operating in Seychelles. This contentious legislation has ignited concerns about its potential consequences for the healthcare industry and good governance within the country.

In a recent press release, United Seychelles voiced its apprehensions regarding the far-reaching implications of the proposed bill on the intersection of healthcare and governance. Dr. Patrick Herminie, the leader of the party, articulated his concerns about how this bill deviates from Seychelles’ historical commitment to free-market principles. Moreover, he argued that it may infringe upon the constitutional rights of citizens, particularly their right to equal protection under Article 27 of the Constitution.

The party emphasized that many pharmacies in Seychelles are owned by local private doctors, and restricting their ability to own and operate pharmacies contradicts the principles of entrepreneurship and fair competition. United Seychelles contends that this policy shift by the government could have significant repercussions on healthcare access and quality within neighborhoods served by these local pharmacies and private clinics.

A Call for Regulatory Reforms and Opportunities for Seychellois Pharmacists

United Seychelles put forth an alternative approach to address concerns about the quality and affordability of pharmaceutical products. Instead of limiting private pharmacies, the party suggests that the government should establish a robust regulatory and monitoring body. Such an entity would ensure that pharmaceutical products meet high standards while maintaining reasonable prices.

Furthermore, the party proposed a requirement for all pharmacies to employ qualified pharmacists. This move would not only enhance the quality of healthcare services but also create opportunities for newly qualified Seychellois pharmacists to practice their profession. United Seychelles sees this as a more balanced approach to safeguarding public health while supporting the professional growth of local talent.

Dr. Herminie stressed the importance of Seychelles adopting internationally accepted practices and questioned the recent decisions made by a government perceived as lacking a clear ideology. United Seychelles expressed deep concern about the current state of governance and called for a more inclusive and thoughtful approach to shaping the country’s healthcare policies. The party’s stance on the Medical Products and Pharmacy Operations Bill, 2023, reflects its commitment to preserving Seychelles’ principles of free-market competition, constitutional rights, and equitable access to healthcare.