The state government of Kerala has decided to sell expensive cancer drugs at a reduced cost through 'Karunya Community Pharmacies' while operating at zero profit. Health Minister Veena George stated that this decision encompasses 800 types of medicines, including those used post-organ transplant surgeries, typically yielding a 12% profit.
Minister Veena George's Statement
Health Minister Veena George emphasized that this initiative will greatly assist patients in accessing medications. The government's intervention in cancer drug availability within the state marks a crucial decision. The project is set to commence on July 15th at each district center through primary Karunya outlets.
Karunya Pharmacies' Zero-Profit Counters
These outlets will feature separate zero-profit free counters and will employ distinct staff for project management. Currently, 74 Karunya pharmacies are selling 7,000 varieties of medicines from various companies at discounted prices. The Kerala Medical Services Corporation (KMSCL), which procures medicines and supplies them through Karunya outlets, plans to implement price cuts.
Presently, drugs are available at discounts ranging from 38% to 93%. Under this government, the profit margin has been reduced from 12% to 8%.
Assistance to Patients from Selling Zero-Profit Medicines
The aim is to cover administrative expenses and further reduce costs after fulfilling the cost. Officials highlighted that the state nodal officer for non-communicable diseases and the state coordinator for the District Cancer Control Program, Dr. Bipin Gopal, emphasized that zero-profit margins will assist cancer patients significantly, as a considerable portion of treatment costs goes towards medication.
Public Health Specialists Support Government Intervention
Public health specialists like Dr. V. Ramankutty and Dr. B. Ekbal have supported governmental initiatives to reduce drug costs. An oncologist based in Kochi, Dr. Ajoo Mathew, conducted a study indicating that nearly 50% of cancer patients in the country struggle financially to afford their treatment. Cancer is a severe disease that imposes financial hardships on patients.
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