The number of pharmacies jumped from 6,200 in 2011 to nearly 12,000 in 2013. And why not?
The regulations allow each pharmacy owner to have 30 branches in each city within a distance of 100 meters.
Now, the biggest question is: Is the Ministry of Health capable of ensuring two factors: the safety of what is sold and the reliability of the prices?
It is truly such a big challenge! This is what the growing concerns prove as many chain pharmacies are bringing in all that you can think of.
Safety inspections of these medications and supplements still concern many Saudi families. Many, unfortunately, have stories to be told of negative side effects.
Another awareness campaign is sought here. It should aim at raising the awareness of society. Many pharmacies can never be considered reliable as they aim to increase their business no matter how many people are harmed!
- The writer is Media Manager, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences. Twitter: @abdullahsayel
Email: [email protected]
