Pharmacists get new dispensation rights

French deputies have approved an amendment allowing pharmacists to dispense medicines on a per-unit basis, meaning they can provide exactly the number of units specified by a medical prescription rather than a full box. This change aims to prevent patients from receiving more medication than needed due to packaging constraints.

Current exceptions and proposed expansion

Some antibiotics are already covered by this provision, but the amendment argues that "this freedom remains too limited." The new exceptions will be defined by decree, expanding the range of medications that can be dispensed individually based on prescriptions.

Support and concerns from deputies

Deputy Guillaume Kasbarian of Renaissance argued that the Health Insurance should not fund extra tablets simply because a manufacturer sells them in a box of twenty or thirty. The proposal received support from deputies across political groups, including Renaissance, LFI, and RN. However, general rapporteur LR Thibault Bazin expressed being "unfavorable" to the measure, citing implementation challenges.

Challenges in implementation

Bazin acknowledged the need to address the issue but warned that implementation is complex. It would require adapting software, packaging, labeling, and pharmacy remuneration models. These changes depend on ongoing negotiations that have yet to begin.

Other amendments approved in committee

As deputies begin examining the PLFSS in the chamber, they will start with the government's initial version. The committee also unanimously adopted an article expanding access to vaccination and voted for an amendment allowing midwives to prescribe sports activities for pregnant and postpartum women.

Delay adjustment for hospital staff coverage

Deputies rejected delaying the coverage of mutual insurance for hospital staff until January 1, 2028, instead shifting the date to January 2, 2027. This change aims to provide coverage for the last group of workers not previously covered by their employers. However, negotiations with unions are still ongoing, and the measure may not be fully implemented by early 2027.