Tunisian Pharmacies Threaten to Suspend Third-Party Payment System
The Tunisian pharmacies are threatening to suspend the third-party payment system starting from August 1st, 2026, due to the lack of a solution for the unpaid debts that are weighing on their treasury. The Syndicat des Pharmaciens d'Officine de Tunisie (SPOT) estimates that the financial situation of several pharmacies has become critical and may now affect the continuity of the medication supply.
Reasons Behind the Decision
The syndicate explains that the accumulated delays in settling the amounts owed to pharmacists have greatly reduced their financial capabilities. Some pharmacies are currently facing difficulties in maintaining their stocks and paying their suppliers, particularly the wholesalers.
Suspension of the Third-Party Payment System
In the absence of a concrete solution before this deadline, the SPOT plans to suspend the third-party payment system from August 1st. This system allows social security beneficiaries to obtain their medications from pharmacies without paying the full cost upfront, which is then covered by the relevant organizations.
A Warning to the Authorities
For the syndicate, this measure does not target patients but is a means of pressure to alert them to a financial situation deemed unsustainable for pharmacies. The SPOT claims to have already taken several steps with the authorities, including the Ministry of Social Affairs and the National Health Insurance Fund (CNAM), to obtain a gradual settlement of the outstanding amounts.
Potential Consequences
Beyond pharmacies, the syndicate warns of a possible domino effect on the entire medication circuit. The weakening of pharmacies could affect relationships with wholesalers and pharmaceutical laboratories, with a risk of tensions on the supply chain.
Call to Pharmaceutical Industries
The SPOT also calls on pharmaceutical industries to grant more flexibility to distributors in their payment terms to avoid additional pressure on the supply chain.
The situation is critical, and a solution must be found to avoid disrupting the medication supply and to ensure the continuity of the healthcare system.
