Moroccan pharmacists raise concerns over impending health reforms

The pharmaceutical sector in Morocco stands at a critical juncture as two significant reforms—the widespread implementation of third-party payment and the digitization of medical prescriptions—are set to be rolled out. However, these initiatives, intended to modernize the healthcare system and enhance access to medical care, have raised substantial apprehensions among pharmacy professionals.

The National Federation of Pharmacy Unions of Morocco (FNSPM) has issued a warning about the potentially adverse impacts of these reforms if they are implemented without adequate consultation and preparation. The federation argues that a lack of foresight and dialogue with on-the-ground stakeholders could further undermine a sector already under strain.

Central to the criticism is the third-party payment system, which allows insured individuals to obtain medication without upfront costs. Although the principle of this system is praised, the FNSPM criticizes it as poorly structured, inequitable, and a source of imbalances. Several clauses of the agreement governing this mechanism have allegedly not been adhered to, particularly concerning training. Since its inception, only three training sessions have been held—an insufficient number to ensure effective deployment.

Furthermore, the oversight and regulatory commission, intended to supervise the system, has never been established. This gap has led to practices deemed unfair, such as the selective referral of patients to certain pharmacies, creating an uneven playing field among pharmacies. In light of these issues, the federation does not rule out the possibility of challenging the current agreement at its next federal council meeting.

Another sensitive issue is the digitization of medical prescriptions. Here too, pharmacists fear a rushed implementation. The lack of IT equipment in many pharmacies, especially in rural areas, and the absence of stable Internet connections present significant hurdles. Additionally, the costs associated with purchasing and maintaining equipment, as well as software subscriptions, weigh heavily on pharmacies already operating with thin margins.

The FNSPM also highlights the risks of technical failures that could jeopardize medication dispensing and access to care, particularly for the most vulnerable patients.

Beyond technical challenges, the digital transition faces an outdated regulatory framework. The 1922 Dahir governing the use of toxic substances does not account for technological advancements in the medical sector, complicating the legal adoption of electronic prescriptions. The federation calls for a comprehensive reform of this legislation to facilitate the digitization of the sector under optimal conditions.

It also emphasizes the need for an effective traceability system based on barcoding serialization of medications to secure the distribution chain.

In light of these numerous challenges, the FNSPM advocates for a participatory approach, urging authorities to involve representatives from the pharmaceutical sector at all stages of reform preparation and implementation. According to the federation, neither the widespread third-party payment system nor the digital prescription can succeed without proper infrastructure, technical and financial support, and, crucially, fair regulation.

As universal health coverage becomes a national priority, pharmacists remind stakeholders of their essential role in the healthcare chain. However, they must be adequately equipped to support this transformation without being sidelined.