European health policy takes another step forward with the approval by the European Parliament’s Committee on Public Health (SANT) of the proposal by Democratic Rally (DISY) and EPP MEP Michalis Hadjipantela for joint procurement of medicines among European Union member states.
The draft regulation was approved with 27 votes in favour, 1 against, and 8 abstentions. The proposal for critical medicines aims to strengthen the availability and supply security of essential medicines, such as antibiotics, insulin, painkillers, vaccines, and treatments for chronic and acute illnesses.
Europe-wide mechanism for stock monitoring and redistribution
The proposal also suggests creating a Europe-wide mechanism to monitor stock levels and redistribute medicines in the event of severe shortages, based on solidarity between member states.
Chatzipantelas expressed particular satisfaction with the Committee’s positive response, emphasising that his pre-election commitment to promote joint procurement of medicines is now becoming a reality. This paves the way for final approval by the European Parliament plenary session in January.
He explained that this initiative ensures timely and affordable access to necessary medicines for all member states wishing to participate, while benefiting from the economies of scale offered by a coordinated European approach.
Special emphasis is placed on access to innovative and high-cost medicines, with Mr Chatzipantelas underlining that his proposal mainly aims to support smaller member states, such as Cyprus, which often face difficulties in securing critical treatments on equal terms.
The approval of the proposal represents another significant step towards a stronger and more resilient Europe, centred on people and the real needs of patients.