The Department of Health (DOH) today announced that the public can search and compare drug retail prices online through the Drug Price Watch Website. The website aims to guide the consumers on where to get the cheapest medicine within their area.
Health Secretary Janette P. Loreto Garin explained that the Drug Price Watch Newspaper Publication and Website (DPW) will address the need for transparent and comparative price information across leading drug stores and public hospital pharmacies in the country.
According to Republic Act 9502 or An Act Providing for Cheaper and Quality Medicines, these pharmaceutical chains are mandated to upload up-to-date prices of drugs they carry on a monthly basis. DOH gathers price information through verification from leading drug stores in the country.
“Through this website, the consumers are being empowered with information to choose affordable and quality medicines in accordance to their needs,” Garin said.
The health chief said that over 120 basic essential medicines most commonly prescribed to consumers are included in the website. It will later be expanded to include a wider array for specialized medicines used in hospitals. In addition, DPW can also give practical tips in choosing quality yet affordable generic medicines.
“Be smart and be updated. Let us be aware of generic medicines that are effective and affordable. Generics para sa Kalusugan, Gamot Pangkalahatan. Mag Generics na.” Garin concluded. # Source – www.doh.gov.ph
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