Private healthcare providers have come under the spotlight following a blistering retail investigation by the country’s consumer watchdog.
The probe, triggered by a consumer complaint, revealed that a prominent private hospital pharmacy in Suva allegedly quoted $820 for a routine three-month supply of prescription medication.
After opting to shop around, the consumer purchased the exact same medicine elsewhere for $361, saving $459.
A subsequent investigation by the Consumer Council of Fiji into a specific drug from the prescription revealed even deeper pricing anomalies.
Council chief executive officer Seema Shandil said while the private hospital pharmacy charged more than $120, three independent local pharmacies sold the identical branded medicine at the same dosage for between $16 and $20.
She condemned the pricing structure and demanded that pharmacies balance profitability with ethical responsibility.
“Medicines are not ordinary discretionary purchases. People buy them because they need them for their health and wellbeing,” Ms Shandil said.
She urged consumers to shop around and compare medicine prices, emphasising that pharmacies must also ensure their pricing is fair and ethical.
“Consumers should compare prices, particularly for regular medications, but pharmacies also have a responsibility to act ethically and with empathy.
“A reasonable premium may be expected at a private hospital, but charging more than $120 for medication available elsewhere for $16 to $20 is simply baffling.”
Ms Shandil advised consumers to follow their doctor’s medical advice, but cautioned against buying medicines from a particular pharmacy.
“Ask about prices, shop around and make an informed choice, it could result in significant savings.”
Ms Shandil said the council had sought information from the private hospital concerned regarding the factors contributing to the retail prices of the medications in this case.
The council has also called on pharmacies and healthcare providers to ensure their pricing practices reflect the trust consumers place in them, particularly when dealing with essential medicines.
