Hamad Hassan speaking with members of the Association of Pharmacies Owners. (Credit: NNA)
BEIRUT — Caretaker Health Minister Hamad Hassan warned Tuesday that legal action could be taken against pharmacies that have been on strike since July 16, while Lebanon, in the midst of socio-economic collapse, is experiencing severe drug shortages.
What we know:
• Many pharmacies across the country have closed their doors to protest the government’s lack of action in addressing monthslong drug shortages.
• On Tuesday, Hassan indicated he would adopt a tough line on striking pharmacies. “From tomorrow, I will speak in a different tone,” he warned after a meeting with the Association of Pharmacies Owners. “It is not a threat, but an insistence on respect for the law,” he stressed. “The judiciary could consider this strike as a criminal financial crime, non-assistance to patients, and a desire to keep stocks of drugs,” the caretaker minister cautioned.
• The Association of Pharmacies Owners resumed its strike for a third time from July 16 until the Health Ministry approves the list of drugs that Banque du Liban will continue to subsidize and ensures the protection of pharmacies after several were stormed by disgruntled customers.
• Pharmacists have repeatedly denounced the chronic shortage of drugs and resultant attacks on members of the pharmacy profession.
• More than a week ago, Hassan announced that subsidies would be lifted on a list of more than 1,500 drugs, but would remain in place on drugs for chronic diseases and neurological disorders, as well as on infant formula and vaccines. Prices for many imported drugs have since increased, but stocks at pharmacies remain low.
What we know:
• Many pharmacies across the country have closed their doors to protest the government’s lack of action in...