Healthy Skepticism Library item: 9200

Warning: This library includes all items relevant to health product marketing that we are aware of regardless of quality. Often we do not agree with all or part of the contents.

Publication type: Journal Article

Garattini S.
Cultural shift in Italy's drug policy.
Lancet 1995 Jul 1; 346:(8966):5-6

Abstract:

The impact of a cultural shift in the drug policy in Italy resulting from a law aimed at rationalizing drug classification and reimbursement by the National Health Service is discussed. It was noted that changes have been qualitative as well as quantitative, as seen by the first 50 most sold drugs by value. This shift has created several problems because it has ruptured a long-established relation between the pharmaceutical industry, doctors, and patients. However, after initial difficulties, there was a consensus by consumer movements and trade unions. Many doctors welcomed the changes too, seeing them as a way to rationalize drug prescriptions.

Keywords:
Cultural Characteristics* Drug Industry Drug and Narcotic Control/legislation & jurisprudence Health Policy* Italy National Health Programs Pharmaceutical Preparations*/classification Pharmaceutical Preparations*/economics