Chronic patients in the Czech Republic are facing a growing crisis as drug shortages continue to plague the healthcare system. While innovative medicines may be available, the issue lies with the regular medications that patients depend on to manage their conditions. This troubling situation is having a profound impact on individuals with chronic illnesses such as cystic fibrosis and Parkinson’s disease, among others. These patients often find themselves in a precarious position, even when the Ministry of Health manages to secure drugs from abroad. In some cases, patients are hesitant to accept these medications due to delays in reimbursement arrangements, resulting in additional out-of-pocket expenses.

A critical concern that has come to the forefront is the acute shortage of digestive enzymes that cystic fibrosis patients rely on for their daily well-being. Simona Zábranská, representing the Cystic Fibrosis Patients’ Club, emphasizes that the limited availability of these crucial drugs significantly complicates the lives of patients who struggle to digest food properly. Failing to take their medication can lead to the accumulation of undigested food in their stomachs, causing severe abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.

The issue extends beyond cystic fibrosis patients, affecting a broader spectrum of individuals with specific diagnoses. The National Association of Patient Organizations conducted a survey that uncovered a concerning pattern of irreplaceable drugs being in short supply. These include medications essential for managing conditions like Parkinson’s disease and drugs derived from blood plasma.

According to Daniela Rrahmaniová, the director of the Drug Department at the Ministry of Health, the need for supplementary payments is often a consequence of the unavailability of certain drugs elsewhere in Europe. Furthermore, the ministry is constrained by legal limitations that make it challenging to secure medications within a reasonable timeframe, as the process typically takes up to 14 days.

Patient advocacy organizations have also raised alarm about the illegal re-exportation of certain drugs intended for chronic patients through the Czech Republic. This practice exacerbates the scarcity of these essential medications. While the Ministry of Health is limited in its capacity to address illegal re-exports, it urges organizations to report such activities to the State Institute for Drug Control.

In a glimmer of hope, patients are now placing their expectations on an upcoming amendment to the Drug Act, which is currently under consideration by Members of Parliament. This amendment aims to introduce new obligations for drug records in pharmacies and significantly increase the fine for unauthorized exports abroad, raising it from the current two million crowns to 20 million crowns. This legislative change could potentially alleviate some of the challenges faced by chronic patients and enhance the availability of essential medications within the Czech healthcare system.

Article by Prague Forum