John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

Unfortunately, many people in the political establishment and the Department of Health and Children do not view pharmacists as an integral part of the health care system but as retailers. The number of customers who seek medical advice in pharmacies, without any prescription or sale of product, and who receive professional advice from a highly qualified medical professional is seldom acknowledged. How is that costed? How does one pay for that advice?

On the argument of drug costs and the 90% paid for by the State, it must be remembered that pharmacists have no mark-up on this. The State pays the pharmacist for the cost of the drug at cost price and a dispensing fee. There is misperception about the role of pharmacists and they are viewed too much as retailers. If there was a greater use of pharmacists' professional knowledge, a far greater service could be made by them to the overall health plan. Advice on conditions such as diabetes and testing are some examples.

Health care reform is moving in the right direction. It is only by keeping it focussed that we will achieve the results that are in the interests of patients. As the general election approaches, I hope the public debate and the debate in the Oireachtas does not derail a reform that is necessary and long overdue in the health service.