Switzerland to implement Measures to combat Shortages of Medicines

The Swiss Federal Council has discussed measures to improve the supply of medicines in Switzerland and is endeavouring to implement a number of measures. In view of increasing global shortages, storage obligations for essential medicines are to be extended, price reductions partially suspended and imports simplified. The aim is to secure the production of essential medicines and better prepare Switzerland for pandemics. A panel of experts is to draw up additional measures.

The measures envisaged by the Federal Council to combat drug shortages include the following points:

• The stockpiling obligation for essential medicines is to be extended to ensure supplies also in times of crisis.
• Planned price reductions for certain medicines will be temporarily suspended so as not to jeopardise availability on the market.
• The federal government should be able to conclude capacity contracts with manufacturers to ensure the production of certain quantities of certain medicines. The extent to which the Armed Forces Pharmacy can take over production is also to be examined.
• The regulations for importing medicines are to be relaxed in order to be able to react more quickly to shortages.
• The Federal Office of Public Health is to assume central responsibility for the procurement of medical supplies in crisis and pandemic situations.

Details can be found on the Swissmedic website.