Why are general practitioners protesting the new drug price labelling rules?

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General Practitioners Protest New Drug Price Labelling Rules Due to Concerns Over Regulatory Overlap and Oversight

General practitioners (GPs) have voiced strong opposition to the implementation of the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011 (Act 723), specifically its application to the medical profession and new drug price labelling rules. Hundreds of GPs participated in a peaceful demonstration, wearing black attire, near the Prime Minister’s Office to submit a memorandum highlighting their concerns. The core of their protest centres on the belief that Act 723 is unnecessary and potentially disruptive, advocating instead for continued regulation under existing healthcare legislation.
Concerns Regarding Regulatory Authority and Oversight

The primary objection raised by the protesting GPs is the perceived redundancy and potential conflict arising from the enforcement of Act 723 on medical practices. They argue that the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998 (Act 586) already provides a comprehensive framework for the regulation of private healthcare facilities and services, including the professional conduct of medical practitioners. This existing legislation, they contend, offers sufficient oversight and mechanisms to address issues related to pricing and service provision without the need for the additional layer of control introduced by Act 723.
Call for Review and Alternative Regulatory Framework

In their memorandum, the GP community explicitly called for a review of Act 723 and proposed that the regulation of medical practice remain exclusively under the purview of Act 586. This suggests a desire to maintain the established regulatory environment, which they are familiar with and believe adequately serves the public interest by ensuring quality and ethical practice. The distinction implies that Act 723, designed for broader price control and anti-profiteering measures across various sectors, may not be suitably tailored for the nuanced operations of healthcare services.
Health Ministry's Stance on Transparency and Affordability

The Health Ministry has responded to the protest by assuring that Act 723's implementation is not intended to disrupt private medical practitioners but aims to foster greater transparency and affordability within the healthcare system. The ministry views the clear labelling of medicine prices, enforced under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering (Price Marking for Drug) Order 2025, as a crucial step towards building a more equitable and sustainable healthcare system. They have indicated a commitment to engaging with stakeholders to ensure a balanced implementation that avoids undue burdens.

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Why are general practitioners protesting the new drug price labelling rules?

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