Vincent Tlala | Medicines safety – the crucial role of pharmacists in protecting you

Posted in: Access to Medicines, Focus, Healthcare system, Healthcare Workers, InFocus, Latest, Opinions, Spotlight

Medicines are among the most powerful tools in healthcare, but they also come with risks. As we mark #MedSafetyWeek, Mr Vincent Tlala, registrar and CEO of the South African Pharmacy Council, argues that the safe use of medicines is a shared responsibility, and is not only up to pharmacists.

Vincent Tlala | Medicines safety – the crucial role of pharmacists in protecting you

ARVs without a script: What next after major court ruling?

Posted in: Access to Medicines, Focus, Healthcare system, Healthcare Workers, HIV/AIDS, InFocus, Latest, Spotlight

A landmark ruling from the Supreme Court of Appeal means specially trained pharmacists will soon be allowed to dispense antiretrovirals without a doctor’s script. Pharmacists with the required training will need special permits from the director general of health. While no pharmacists yet hold these permits, Catherine Tomlinson reports that they may be able to start applying for them as soon as next month.