A year after the Ministry of Health conducted a reform of drug prices, it can be concluded that the industry's gloomy forecasts of mass pharmacy closures and drug shortages did not come true.
The average price of a package of prescription drugs decreased by 17% last year, while prices in the over-the-counter drug segment continue to rise, reported the Latvian television program "De facto".
Experts are examining whether control over prices for over-the-counter drugs can be strengthened. Last year, the government changed the formula for setting prices on prescription drugs. Firstly, it was established that the manufacturer's price for drugs in Latvia cannot be higher than the offer for neighboring countries. Secondly, fixed markups for wholesalers and pharmacies were introduced. Additionally, a fee for pharmacist services was implemented, which is partially covered by the state, but the client pays 75 cents.
In the pre-election atmosphere, politicians agreed that for drugs costing up to ten euros, this fee would be fully covered by the state. The changes are planned to take effect from July 1. A year ago, opponents of the reform - pharmacies and wholesalers - painted a grim picture of the collapse of the pharmaceutical industry. However, as recent data from the Ministry of Health shows, chaos did not occur. Out of 3,635 currently registered prescription drugs, the pharmacy price was reduced for 3,285 drugs (90%), increased for 344 drugs, and remained unchanged for six drugs.
Price increases, as expected, are observed in the cheapest price group - up to five euros, where prices rose on average by 21% or by 0.50 euros. Drugs in the price group of 5-10 euros decreased by 0.92 euros. Prices for drugs over 10 euros fell by about one fifth. However, pressure from the industry does not weaken - now wholesalers are demanding an increase in allowable markups on more expensive drugs.
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