Nairobi, Kenya-The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) has called for the immediate halt of Pharmacy First services, saying the unilaterally launched service puts patient safety at risk and could compromise health standards in the country.
The body has called for an urgent consultative meeting between stakeholders in the medical industry, including the ministry of health, insurance companies, regulators, professional bodies, and pharmacy chains to address the issue.
Addressing the issue, the PSK explained that, “The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) supports patient-centered services through the provision of Medication Therapy Management (MTM) by licensed pharmacists, ensuring optimal patient outcomes through collaborative practices with medical practitioners.”
In a letter addressed to the concerned parties, including the Cabinet Secretary for Health Susan Nakhimicaha, PSK explained that “Majority of the contracted pharmacies are compromising patient safety by cost-cutting and providing pharmacist services without registered pharmacists in violation of Cap 244 section 31 subsection 2. Under the guise of convenience and accessibility, they are packaging and selling the same to unsuspecting insurance companies and general members of the public.”
PSK says that certain insurance companies have initiated Pharmacy First Services without consulting them and the Pharmacy and Poison’s Board (PBB).
PSK had written a letter to Britam and Old Mutual insurance companies on October 27, copied to AKI and PBB, communicating their concerns.
Earlier this month, Capital FM reported that Old Mutual had partnered with Haltons Pharmacy and Goodlife Pharmacy to unveil Pharmacy First services to enable Kenyans to receive treatment at community pharmacies, saying the program aims to revolutionize how primary healthcare is accessed and delivered by offering convenience and efficiency.
Under the program, which is covered under Old Mutual’s medical covers, clients can visit accredited pharmacies for consultation with clinicians and receive necessary medications if the condition can be managed there. The Pharmacy First service offers convenience and efficiency, ensuring patients receive the care they need and exactly when they need it.
The Pharmacy and Poison’s Board (PBB), Kenya Medical Association (KMA), and Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) are in unison with PSK, saying the Pharmacy First Services could jeopardize medical standards in the country.