There is no threat to the adequacy of medicines from cross-border prescription, the National eHealth Authority points out, responding to concerns about the purchases of European citizens from Cypriot pharmacies.
The full announcement:
On the occasion of the recent reports of the Pancyprian Pharmaceutical Association(PFS) on the possible effects of electronic cross-border prescribing, it is considered appropriate to provide clarifications that will contribute to the correct information of citizens. The implementation of the European electronic cross-border prescription (MyHealth@EU) system does not negatively affect the availability of medicines, but instead strengthens the supervisory mechanisms.
The adequacy of medicines is a key priority for all competent bodies. The concerns that have been expressed are understandable and are being treated with due seriousness. At the same time, it should be clarified that the execution of prescriptions from other countries of the European Union is not a new practice, but has been applied for years in the context of Directive 2011/24/EU on patients' rights in cross-border healthcare, which enables EU citizens to receive medical care and execute prescriptions in other Member States under specific conditions.
The essential difference today is that this process is now carried out with the support of a modern digital system, which allows the secure exchange of information between Member States. Through the MyHealth@EU, health professionals have the opportunity to know what has already been prescribed and what has been performed in the patient's country of origin.
This possibility reduces significant phenomena of multiple or uncontrolled prescriptions and contributes to the rational use of medicines, as the responsibility for the prescription and the medical necessity of the treatment always remains with the attending physician who issues the prescription. By extension, transparency and effective management of available stocks are enhanced, without creating pressure on the pharmaceutical market.
At the same time, specific policies and legislative initiatives are being promoted at the European level to strengthen the adequacy of medicines and the resilience of health systems, such as the European Pharmaceutical Strategy and the new European mechanisms for monitoring and managing shortages of medicines through the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The aim of these measures is to prevent shortages and ensure unhindered access for citizens to essential medicines in all Member States of the European Union.
Cyprus is making steady use of European digital infrastructure and modern possibilities for cooperation in the field of health, moving towards a more modern, safe and efficient health system. Through these initiatives, transparency, better monitoring of pharmaceutical availability and ensuring the adequacy of medicines are enhanced, with the ultimate goal of better serving and protecting all citizens.
