21/06/2018. We strongly did not support the change in classification of tramadol to a Class C2 controlled drug. Instead we recommended a change to a Class C5 controlled drug. This still allows for the extra power for Police and Customs while preventing the requirement to store tramadol in the controlled drug safe.
Guild’s submission on the regulation of natural health products.
We supported the proposed amendment to exempt commercial ear-piercing services undertaken in pharmacies from the requirement to obtain a licence. We believe the current combined audits and licensing requirements of the Ministry of Health provide the Council and public with reassurance that health and safety is maintained.
We did not support extending eligibility for paid parental leave to other permanent care arrangements. We emphasized the difficulty community pharmacy has in covering maternity leave, particularly in rural areas.
The Guild supports the proposed changes to the Medicines Act 1981, contained within the Medicines Amendment Bill. The changes will better align the legislation to current practice, and will simplify processes and definitions.
The Guild considers the proposal to allow prescribers to issue a 12 month prescription for oral contraceptives and a six month prescription for all other prescription medication to be acceptable, subject to our recommended safeguards.
