- In 2020, the first Code of Ethics for Clinics Adjacent to Pharmacies was published.
- The document was prepared by the National Association of Medicine Distributors (Anadim) and groups 17 pharmacy chains.
- It contains all the characteristics that the service offered by the medical staff of this type of space must have.
Over the last few days there is a topic that has positioned itself as one of the most commented. These are doctors who see patients in exchange for consultations at affordable prices. To date, it remains the most popular service among the population, although it also has several detractors, especially within the health sector itself. So one of the most important questions is: Do pharmacy doctors have professional ethics?
The discussion increased in level from the recent statement by the Undersecretary of Health, Hugo López-Gatell. He clearly said that these types of places put patients at risk and also the doctors who work there. He also pointed out that if it were possible for him, he would have already removed them.
What do doctors say about pharmacy offices?
About this topic we have already published an article where we include the opinion of several health professionals in our country. But now we are going to focus on the daily work that is done in these low-cost places.
To begin with, the Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris) affirms that this type of spaces offer 325 thousand daily consultations throughout the national territory. While the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS) makes 290 thousand and the Institute of Security and Social Services for State Workers (ISSSTE) 75 thousand.
With this in mind, it is already the alternative to which more Mexicans go for general problems. But now the important thing is to know if the Pharmacy doctors have professional ethics.
Characteristics of the medical service in pharmacy offices
Before offering an answer, it should be mentioned that in 2020 the first Code of Ethics for Clinics Adjacent to Pharmacies. It is a document written by the National Association of Drug Distributors (Anadim). Within this group there are 17 chains such as Guadalajara Pharmacies, Savings Pharmacies, San Pablo Pharmacies, Chedraui, Soriana and GI Pharmacies. While together it brings together more than 10,500 health care centers throughout the country.
One of its objectives is the standardization of the practice of medical personnel in this type of office. In all cases, it must always be based on optimal service and quality for the patient.
Regarding the relationship with the patient, the The code establishes six central points that all doctors must comply with.
- The first responsibility of the health personnel of the CAFs is to exercise their professional practice committed to the well-being and safety of the patient, putting the benefit of the patient before their legitimate personal, professional or commercial interest.
- CAF staff should not receive any financial benefits or other incentives for referring patients or prescribing specific products.
- The health personnel of the CAFs must attend to all those who demand their services without any distinction.
- The information that could cause concern or discomfort to the patient must be provided with due prudence and sensitivity.
- The information on a patient’s disease must be kept confidential, respecting the General Law on the Protection of Personal Data.
- Confidential management of clinical records, written or electronic records, is the responsibility of those who have access to that information.
Based on all of the above, do you consider that pharmacy doctors comply with this code of professional ethics?
Also read:
Pharmacy offices, what do doctors think of this business?
López-Gatell attacks pharmacy offices: “They should not exist”
Patients prefer cheap clinics: They offer more consultations than IMSS and ISSSTE