Pharmacy Regulations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 November 2014

Tuesday, 25 November 2014

Questions (361)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

361. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if he will provide details of the legal requirements for receipts issued in pharmacies on the purchase of medicines; if there is any legal requirement for itemised prices of medicines purchased; if there is any intention to introduce itemised prices in view of the fact that this may lead to greater consumer knowledge of and control over prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45144/14]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

There is no legal requirement for retail pharmacies to provide for itemised prices of medicines purchased. However, it is acknowledged that the transparency of prices of medicines for patients is desirable and measures have been taken to increase price transparency among retail pharmacies. The Department engaged with the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland to consider how to provide greater price transparency in retail pharmacies.

In March of this year the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland issued guidelines to pharmacists on procedures and minimum standards of information to be provided to customers, including a requirement to provide an itemised receipt of purchase of medicines, setting out the price per item dispensed.