Conflict Between CNAM and SPOT Will Not Affect Citizens' Access to Medication
The dispute between the National Health Insurance Fund (CNAM) and the Tunisian Pharmacists' Union (SPOT) will not compromise citizens' access to medication. Following the Union's announcement on Saturday, October 25, 2025, to suspend the direct reimbursement mechanism for ordinary illnesses starting from October 27 and not to renew the 2026 agreement, the CNAM has clarified its position.
The public health fund emphasizes that this decision was communicated solely through a press release during the weekend, without respecting the legal and contractual procedures provided for in the 2019 sectoral agreement and its annexes. Furthermore, the Union had previously confirmed, during a session on September 24, 2025, at the Ministry of Social Affairs, the continuity of reimbursement and the renewal of the agreement.
The CNAM recalls that all its obligations have been respected, and the funds have been paid within the agreed-upon deadlines. Under the Constitution, particularly Article 43, which guarantees the right to health, and in accordance with Law No. 71 of 2004 on the continuity of care for social security beneficiaries, the fund is committed to preserving access to treatment for all citizens.
During an extraordinary session held on Sunday, October 26, 2025, the CNAM took the following measures:
- Private health insurance beneficiaries will continue to benefit from reimbursement for medications related to ordinary illnesses.
- Decisions on coverage for these medications will be maintained, with the fund committed to paying pharmacists within 15 days of receiving invoices.
- The direct reimbursement mechanism at pharmacies will continue to function normally.
The CNAM specified that its commission remains on high alert to take all necessary measures to ensure public health and the continuity of care.
