health
Independent pharmacies enter the center of the debate as key to resolving the medication access crisis
Candidates agree on integrating this network into the health system Photo: Courtesy Asocoldro
TL;DR
- Independent pharmacies are seen as the most immediate logistical solution to improve medication access.
- Candidates propose leveraging the existing network of over 10,000 pharmacies as an underutilized operational capacity.
- The focus is on strengthening the 'last mile' of medicine delivery to patients, where current delays and fragmentation occur.
- Integrating pharmacies formally could reduce delivery times, improve coverage, and respond more agilely to demand.
- The role of the pharmacist is redefined as a key player in the health system, serving as a direct point of contact with patients, especially in underserved areas.
- Technological tools, such as online medical records and data interoperability, are proposed to integrate dispensing with other health services.
- Structural barriers, including competition with large chains and lack of public policy recognition, need to be addressed.
- Proposals include economic and health measures to strengthen independent pharmacies, such as differential income tax and stronger enforcement of regulations.
- Security factors, like extortion, contraband, and counterfeit products, also affect pharmacy operations and require dedicated actions.
- The network of independent pharmacies represents a significant economic component, sustaining over 100,000 formal jobs.