Core Viewpoint - The new policy document issued by the Ministry of Commerce and nine other departments aims to enhance the role of retail pharmacies in China, transforming them into "health stations" that provide professional services, health promotion, and emergency supply functions [1][2]. Group 1: Policy Objectives - The document outlines 18 measures to support pharmacies in improving pharmaceutical service capabilities, optimizing the purchasing experience, participating in centralized drug procurement, and establishing payment guarantee systems [2][3]. - The retail pharmaceutical market in China has been expanding, with sales increasing from 2.41 trillion yuan in 2020 to an expected 2.95 trillion yuan in 2024 [3]. Group 2: Empowerment and Quality Improvement - The policy allows retail pharmacy chains to establish their own pharmaceutical service platforms, enabling licensed pharmacists to provide remote prescription reviews and medication guidance [3]. - It encourages the optimization of the drug business license application process and supports the sale of innovative drugs and reference preparations through retail pharmacies [4]. Group 3: Accountability and Community Engagement - The policy emphasizes the need for retail pharmacies to enhance emergency services and encourages large pharmacy chains to establish dynamic demand forecasting and low inventory warning mechanisms [4]. - It promotes collaboration between pharmacies and community organizations to provide health care services tailored to the elderly, disabled, and children, further expanding the role of pharmacies as health stations [4][6]. Group 4: Market Competition and Collaboration - The document stresses the importance of fair competition in the industry and advocates for deep cooperation between pharmaceutical manufacturers and large distribution companies to regulate drug pricing [5].
打造“健康驿站”!9部门发文促药品零售行业高质量发展
Xin Hua She·2026-01-22 21:13