Keeping Medicines Affordale: Senate Pushes for Action on Drug Prices

Pakistan’s Senate Standing Committee on Health has issued a strong call to the Ministry of National Health Services: keep medicine prices within reach for the average citizen.

During a recent meeting chaired by Senator Dr. Muhammad Humayun Mohmand, the committee expressed serious concern over the rising cost of essential medicines. With inflation already straining household budgets, the price of healthcare is becoming a burden many can’t afford.

The committee urged the ministry to take concrete steps to regulate drug pricing and ensure that pharmaceutical companies do not exploit market conditions. Members emphasized that access to affordable medicine is a basic right, not a luxury.

One of the key issues discussed was the role of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP). The committee recommended that DRAP strengthen its oversight and improve transparency in the pricing process. They also called for better coordination between federal and provincial health departments to streamline policy implementation.

Senator Mohmand highlighted the need for a pricing strategy that balances affordability with sustainability. He stressed that while pharmaceutical companies must remain viable, public health should never be compromised for profit.

The committee also reviewed recent price hikes and questioned whether they were justified. It asked the ministry to present a detailed report on the factors driving up costs and the measures being taken to mitigate them.

In addition, the senators discussed the importance of maintaining a steady supply of essential medicines. Shortages, they warned, could lead to black-market activity and further price inflation.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous recommendation: the health ministry must act swiftly to protect citizens from unaffordable healthcare. This includes revisiting pricing policies, enhancing regulatory mechanisms, and ensuring that medicines remain accessible to all segments of society.

As Pakistan continues to navigate economic challenges, the Senate’s message is clear—healthcare must remain a priority, and medicine prices must be kept in check.