The study, carried out online with 525 pharmacists, shows that 42% of them refuse to sell self-service drugs, a possibility that has been offered to them since July 1. 28% say they are ready to do so “in the coming weeks”.
This study reveals that pharmacists are still predominantly opposed to the self-service sale of drugs. In recent months, the profession has stepped up communication campaigns, with the aim of recalling the importance of the role of the pharmacist. The last, called “The green cross, a sign that does not deceive”, and released in September, aimed to remind the French of the different missions of pharmacists.
According to an Ipsos Santé study, carried out for the Order of Pharmacists, and published in January 2008, 87% of French people consider the pharmacist “above all as a health professional, and not as a merchant like any other”. This survey also showed that they are attached to the safety and proximity of the pharmacy purchase.
Since July 1, pharmacists have been authorized to sell self-service drugs in their pharmacies. In all, 217 pharmaceutical specialties, 12 herbal medicines and 19 homeopathic medicines are concerned. These are only non-reimbursable drugs, in particular intended for the treatment of pain, cold sores, rhinitis, or conjunctivitis. Nicotine substitutes are also part of it.
