AUGUST , 2023 | THE HEALTH

“ Consequently , the large pharmacies will have more control over pricing and potentially limit choices for consumers .”

SURVIVAL OF NEIGHBOURHOOD PHARMACIES

Federation of Malaysian Consumers Association ( FOMCA ) President Datuk Dr Marimuthu Nadason highlighted several potential effects of pharmacy mergers on consumer prices relating to medicines and supplements .

“ When pharmacies merge , there is a possibility of reduced competition in the market . Fewer competitors could lead to less incentive for price competition , potentially resulting in higher prices for medicines and supplements .

“ Larger pharmacy chains resulting from mergers may have increased market power and bargaining leverage with pharmaceutical manufacturers .

“ This could lead to better deals for the pharmacies in bulk purchases and logistical , operational savings through chain outlets but might not necessarily translate into lower prices for consumers if the pharmacies are more focussed on yielding more profits .”

He said some pharmacies may streamline their inventory after a merger , offering a limited product variety . This could limit consumers ’ choices for specific medicines , especially lifesaving medicines and supplements and may not always lead to the most cost-effective options .

Consumers might have limited access to alternative community pharmacies , leaving them with fewer choices and potentially facing higher prices as many of these conventional ones

may be forced to close down due to unfair competition from the big boys .

The impact , he added , will be felt by the older generation of consumers , especially those who depend on their neighbourhood pharmacies to get not only their supplies but more personalised services by the local pharmacist concerning healthy living based on a friendly relationship .

Marimuthu also shared on the impact on insurance and benefit plans , as pharmacy mergers may influence the negotiation and pricing of medicines and supplements with insurance companies and their benefit plans . This could result in co-pay changes or coverage levels , affecting consumers ’ out-of-pocket expenses .

In terms of customer service and accessibility , he said some pharmacy mergers may lead to changes in customer service levels and accessibility . Depending on the approach taken by the merged entity , there could be improvements or declines in the overall consumer experience .

“ Overall , the effects of pharmacy mergers on consumer prices relating to medicines and supplements can vary depending on several factors .

“ As a consumer association , it is essential to monitor these developments closely , advocate for fair pricing practices , and ensure that consumer access to affordable and quality healthcare products is not compromised .

“ Transparency and regulatory oversight by the Competition Commission are crucial in mitigating any negative impacts on consumers in the pharmaceutical market .” – The Health

Datuk Dr Marimuthu Nadason

FEDERATION OF Malaysian Consumers Associations ( FOMCA ) President Datuk Dr Marimuthu Nadason believes the government plays a crucial role in helping contain medication and health supplement prices to ensure affordability and accessibility for consumers .

“ The government can implement price controls and regulations on essential medications and health supplements to limit unjustified price increases and ensure these products remain affordable .

“ And by leveraging its purchasing power , the government can negotiate with pharmaceutical companies and suppliers to secure better prices for medications and health supplements . Bulk purchasing can lead to cost savings that can be passed on to consumers .

“ The government can provide subsidies or financial assistance programs for low-income individuals & vulnerable populations ( B40 and low middle-income earners ) and patients with chronic conditions to help them access necessary lifesaving medications and supplements at reduced costs .”

He also shared the government should encourage generic alternatives through health education , promoting the use of generic medications and health supplements by working with consumer groups to raise health awareness and change the behaviour of consumers , as generic products are often more affordable than brand-name equivalents .

“ Also , through the Malaysian Competition Commission ( MyCC ), the government can enforce antitrust laws to prevent monopolistic practices in the pharmaceutical market , encouraging healthy competition among suppliers , leading to better consumer prices .

EMPOWERING SOCIETY

Meanwhile , government investment in research and development for affordable medications and supplements , he said , can foster the development of innovative and costeffective products .

“ I believe that a well-balanced approach by the government , along with engagement from relevant stakeholders , can help contain medication and health supplement prices , ensuring that consumers have access to essential healthcare products without undue financial burdens .”

With regard to health education and literacy , the Ministry of Health ( MoH ) has developed the Know Your Medicine Programme with five primary goals to achieve these objectives :

Director-General of Health Datuk Dr Radzi Abu Hassan shared : “ The ultimate goal is to empower society for disease prevention and encourage active participation in maintaining personal , family , and community health .

“ Firstly , it aims to educate and raise awareness among the public about the rational and safe use of medicines .

“ Secondly , the programme seeks to enhance consumers ’ knowledge and decision-making skills regarding their medicines use .”

Dr Radzi said thirdly , the programme aims to improve access to accurate and reliable medication information . Fourthly , it intends to establish a network of community health representatives who support the Quality Use of Medicines .

“ Lastly , it aims to implement the concept of community empowerment for self-medication within Malaysian communities . The aim is to create a healthier and more informed society where individuals are actively involved in their healthcare and the well-being of their communities ,” he added .

At the national level , the MoH prioritises health in all its development plans through the Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat ( ANMS ).

“ The Quality Use of Medicines plays a significant role in supporting three of the four main thrusts in ANMS : Strengthening the Promotion of Healthy Lifestyle , Improving Health Wellness Services , and Enhancing Self-Health Management .”