Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing crackdown on the practice of "hanging certificates" by pharmacists in retail pharmacies, highlighting the regulatory measures being implemented to ensure public safety and the integrity of the healthcare system [3][4][11]. Summary by Sections Regulatory Actions - The National Healthcare Security Administration has mandated a review of pharmacists' "hanging certificates" in retail pharmacies, requiring provincial healthcare departments to report findings by June 30, 2025 [3]. - Recent actions in Guangdong and Inner Mongolia have led to the revocation of licenses for pharmacists involved in "hanging certificates," with investigations revealing multiple instances of pharmacists' names appearing across different pharmacies [4][11]. Background and Previous Efforts - This is not the first initiative against "hanging certificates"; previous efforts date back to 2017, with various governmental bodies coordinating to address the issue across multiple sectors [6]. - High-profile media exposés have previously highlighted the prevalence of this issue, prompting ongoing governmental scrutiny and enforcement [6]. Reasons for the Prevalence of "Hanging Certificates" - Economic incentives, uneven distribution of licensed pharmacists, and regulatory challenges contribute to the persistence of "hanging certificates" in the industry [7][8]. - The rapid increase in the number of retail pharmacies, which surpassed 700,000 by mid-2024, has exacerbated the demand for licensed pharmacists, leading to a reliance on "hanging certificates" to meet regulatory requirements [7][8]. Impact on Public Safety and Market Integrity - The article emphasizes that the normalization of "hanging certificates" poses significant risks to public health, including the potential for misuse of prescription medications and increased health hazards [9]. - The practice undermines the professional value of pharmacists, reducing their role to mere certificate holders and leading to a loss of talent in the industry [9]. Consequences of Regulatory Crackdown - The crackdown is expected to increase operational costs for pharmacies, particularly affecting smaller and rural establishments that may struggle to comply with new regulations [12]. - The demand for compliant pharmacists may lead to a temporary "talent war," driving up salaries and impacting market dynamics [12]. Long-term Outlook - While the immediate effects of the crackdown may cause industry turmoil, it is anticipated to lead to a healthier market environment, fostering innovation and a shift towards compliance and service-oriented practices [12].