All drugs imports into the county must be done either through the Tema port or the Kotoka International Airport in Accra.

The importation of drugs through any other entry point apart from the two is illegal.

The Registrar of the Pharmacy Council, Mr M.F. Awuku-Kwatia disclosed this in Accra. He was addressing a workshop for pharmacists in Accra as part of the continuing education programme of the Council.

Mr Awuku-Kwatia explained that the two-entry points were selected because they are the only places where the Food and Drugs Board has officials who inspect the wholesomeness or otherwise of food products. Mr Awuku-Kwatia said the programme is to equip registered pharmacists with relevant knowledge, information and approach skills for the discharge of their duties. He said “It is also to create the capacity for the delivery of the highest level of competent pharmaceutical care providers in the country”.

The Registrar said very soon, the attendance at such programmes would be taken into consideration for the renewal of their certificates yearly. He noted that as professionals, they need to undertake the ongoing learning programme throughout their careers as a contribution towards the maintenance and enhancement of their personal development and professional competence. Mr Awuku-Kwatia reminded them that their role has changed from that of focusing on pharmaceutical products to a more patient directed focus that included clinical pharmacy and pharmaceutical care.

Speaking on “Patients” rights and ethical responsibilities of pharmacists”, the Deputy Director of the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Mr Lawrence Lartey said it is unethical to reveal medical problems of patients. He said the patient has the right to sue medical practitioners for any unprofessional conduct. The Deputy Director asked pharmacists to go strictly by the codes of conduct to ensure that they got the confidence of their patients.

When contacted, the Executive Director of the Food and Drugs Board, Mr Emmanuel Agyarko confirmed that it is illegal to bring in drugs through anywhere else apart from the two routes.