GMOA appalled at unlisted pharmacies

by Ananda KANNANGARA

The Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) has expressed its concern over a large number of unregistered pharmacies coming up like mushrooms all over the country. The GMOA, has urged the Health Ministry to take immediate measures to check on such pharmacies, located especially in the rural areas.

According to a recent GMOA survey, it was found that only 2300 pharmacies have been registered with the Drug Regulatory Authority (DRA) which was established under Parliamentary Act. No 27 of 1981.

The GMOA is of the view that a large number of unregistered pharmacies with unqualified dispensers still do brisk business all over. Assistant Secretary of GMOA Dr. Chandana Atapattu told the Sunday Observer that according to Department regulations, registered pharmacies must employ at least one qualified pharmacist, who must be physically present during business hours in their drug outlets.

Sri Lanka has 6,800 qualified pharmacists with certificates of proficiency in pharmacy.