LAHORE: The Punjab health department has asked pharmaceutical companies to curtail the prices of drugs, taking into account economic constraints, inflation, and public demand in the current situation.

While chairing a meeting of the Provincial Drugs Quality Control Board on Thursday, Punjab Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare Dr Jamal Nasir emphasised the need for immediate measures to reduce the cost of medical treatment, especially medicine prices, given the current economic situation in the country.

He noted that Pakistan is currently facing economic constraints, and it is crucial to control the rising cost of medical treatment.

The minister called for government institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and other stakeholders to collaborate and develop a comprehensive mechanism to lower medicine prices.

He said that the well-being and prosperity of Pakistan are essential for economic growth and business development in the country.

“The pharmaceutical companies and other medical entrepreneurs should prioritize the accessibility of treatment for the masses over personal interests and minimize their profits,” said the health minister.

Dr Nasir highlighted that the primary goal of the medical field is to serve humanity, and drugs are a fundamental component of it.

He also said that the local pharmaceutical industry could expand further by producing international-quality medicine in Pakistan.

“Access to quality medicines is a basic right of the people, and we are committed to ensuring it,” he stated.

The minister noted that the Provincial Quality Control Board plays a crucial role in ensuring the supply of quality medicines in Punjab and instructed that all cases should be considered on their merits.

The meeting was attended by Special Secretary of Health Muhammad Iqbal, Additional Secretary Dr Qalandar Khan, Director General of Drugs Control Muhammad Sohail, pharmaceutical experts, and related officers.

Published in Dawn, October 6th, 2023