Kuwait Ministry of Health reaffirms commitment to affordable drug pricing

Kuwait’s Ministry of Health has reiterated its dedication to implementing the decisions of the Gulf Health Council’s Gulf Drug Pricing Committee, emphasizing the need for a balance between affordable medication prices and support for the local pharmaceutical industry.

In a statement issued, the Kuwaiti ministry highlighted that the Drug Pricing Committee is responsible for reducing the prices of medicines based on studies conducted by the Drug Pricing Department within the Drug Control Sector.

The ministry explained that drug price reductions are primarily driven by the expiration of patents for innovative drugs, which causes prices to drop by 30 to 80 percent, depending on the drug type and country. The increasing availability of non-innovative generic drugs and therapeutic alternatives in the local market has further increased competition, driving down prices.

The statement also emphasized that the goal of reducing drug prices is to meet the needs of Kuwaiti citizens and expats, providing them with medicines at reasonable prices, easing financial burdens on patients, and lowering medical costs for visitors.

The ministry clarified that the drug pricing process takes into account various factors, including expenditures on clinical trials, research and development, manufacturing, packaging, transportation, storage, and the use of technology in the pharmaceutical industry.

This approach allows for the creation of flexible pricing models, market data evaluation, and enhancement of the supply chain.

On 11 November, Kuwaiti authorities apprehended a gang of four individuals involved in the forgery of official documents and medical records.

Authorities announced that they have been referred to public prosecution for possessing counterfeit documents, government seals, computers, and drugs.

Additionally, the Interior Ministry reported that the suspects were issuing falsified sick leaves backdated to align with a well-known medical center and the Medical Licensing Department in exchange for money.

The police closely monitored the suspects and their actions, and upon their arrest, discovered seals and equipment used for forgery in their possession. They were also linked to intoxicants and narcotic substances, the ministry noted.

It remains to be investigated whether the forged medical reports were presented to employers and, if so, what the outcome was, as it has not yet been confirmed. A nationwide security campaign has also been initiated to address illegal foreign residents in Kuwait. These individuals were exploiting a three-month grace period to correct their residency status.