Queuing for medicine

Last night, Pharmacists voted unanimously to accept the revised payment plan after 24 days of closure, resulting in an estimated loss of 14 million euro worth of sales. The decision was taken by the majority: 409 in favor, 36 against and 30 abstained.

When the strike action started, the Generalitat Valenciana (local Government) owed pharmacists in the province 450 million euros. A proposal was rejected at a meeting held last week as there was lack of guarantees that the payment schedule would be adhered to. Yesterday, the government paid 114 million euros to the pharmacists which covered outstanding payments for prescriptions dispensed mid May to mid June, leaving a balance of 336 million!

Minister of Health,  Luis Rosada said that although they are proud to have reduced the debt "we will not rest until it disappears completely". The payment schedule which has been approved states that in December they will be paid the outstanding debts dating from mid June to mid July, in January two payments will be made to cover up to mid September and in February the debt from December. By March 2013, the Consell said everything should be "normal".
Jaime Carbonell, President of COFA - College of Pharmacies in Alicante wanted to thank all the patients for having to endure this situation and apologized for the inconvenience caused during this period of disruption. It has been very difficult for many patients, especially those with no cars. A list was displayed on the doors and windows of all pharmacies stating which one in the area was open on each day. By law each town has to have an emergency on call pharmacy open out of hours, 7 days a week.

It was a common sight to pass a pharmacy which was open and see the queue coming out of the door and onto the pavement - however, the strike was supported by the majority of the public who were shocked to learn of the money owed to them and the scale of situation. Im glad that they held out... previous strikes folded after 2 days following promises of money, which never materialized. The pharmacists are very knowledgable and if you can´t get to your doctor you should certainly seek their advice. Lets hope that they get the money that are promised and due...