Egypt's efforts to ensure fair drug pricing

In a move to bring more transparency and stability to its pharmaceutical sector, the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population has announced a new initiative to regulate drug prices more effectively. This effort includes the creation of a dedicated drug pricing review committee and an expansion of the Egyptian Drug Authority's (EDA) capacity.

Ministry spokesperson Hossam Abdel Ghaffar revealed that Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar will chair the newly formed committee, which is set to convene every six months. The primary goal of this committee is to ensure that drug pricing remains fair and transparent, addressing growing concerns about potential shortages and price hikes in the market.

To complement the committee's work, the Egyptian Drug Authority is significantly increasing its capacity to review drug prices. This includes ramping up the number of drug classes evaluated each week, enabling a more responsive approach to market changes. This expansion aims to expedite the review process and mitigate any disruptions that might affect the availability and affordability of essential medications.

These measures come in response to widespread concerns about drug shortages and the affordability of medications. By instituting regular reviews and expanding the EDA's capabilities, the government aims to stabilize the pharmaceutical market, ensuring that patients have access to the medications they need without facing prohibitive costs.

Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar emphasized the importance of these steps during a recent medical conference in Cairo, underscoring the government's commitment to making healthcare more accessible and equitable for all Egyptians.

With the establishment of the new drug pricing review committee and the expansion of the Egyptian Drug Authority’s review capacity, Egypt is taking significant steps to regulate its pharmaceutical sector. These efforts are poised to bring about greater transparency, fairness, and stability, ultimately benefiting both patients and the healthcare system as a whole.