Access to medicines is a fundamental right enshrined in European and global health policies. Despite significant advancements in healthcare across Europe, disparities in availability and accessibility of medicines persist, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations and remote/rural regions. These disparities have been further exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting systemic challenges in supply chains and healthcare infrastructure. Digital health solutions present a transformative opportunity to bridge these gaps.

However, only 8 out of 27 Member States have allowed this choice for decades. The ongoing revision of the General Pharmaceutical Legislation (GPL) provides a once in a generation opportunity to address inequitable patient access, address medicine shortages, and to empower healthcare providers across all Member States to offer additional patient services through digitalisation and innovative means.

To unlock the full benefits to patients of enabling safe online access to prescription medicine, The OnHOME Alliance is co-hosting an event, with MEP Kristian Vigenin (S&D, Bulgaria), titled “Equitable Access to Medicines Across Europe: The Role of Digital Solution”.

The event aims to foster a constructive dialogue among policymakers, healthcare professionals, patient representatives, and industry stakeholders on how digital innovation could contribute to advancing equitable access to medicines and minimising shortages. https://onhomealliance.pharmacy/event/equitable-access-to-medicines-across-europe-the-role-of-digital-solutions/