NHA Welcomes New Essential Drug Pricing Policy

The National Health Alliance (NHA) has formally welcomed the government’s decision to approve a revised system for determining medicine prices alongside an updated list of essential drugs, describing the move as a significant step towards reducing healthcare costs and strengthening equity in access to treatment. The organisation believes the policy will have a meaningful and lasting impact on ordinary citizens, particularly low- and middle-income families who struggle with rising medical expenses.

In a joint statement issued on Friday, 9 January, NHA Convener Professor Shadrul Islam and Member Secretary Dr Abdul Ahad expressed their appreciation for the decision taken at a recent meeting of the Advisory Council. At that meeting, 295 medicines were officially included in the national essential medicines list and brought under a regulated pricing framework. According to the Alliance, this measure is expected to curb excessive pricing practices and ensure that life-saving drugs are sold at rates that reflect public interest rather than market speculation.

The NHA noted that the approval of a modern, transparent pricing policy marks a turning point in the regulation of the pharmaceutical sector. By fixing prices for essential medicines, the government has created a mechanism through which people can access safe, effective and quality-assured drugs without facing undue financial pressure. The Alliance stated that once fully implemented, the policy would significantly lower out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure, a burden that disproportionately affects vulnerable households.

From the NHA’s perspective, access to effective medicines at times of need is a fundamental right of every citizen. Transparent and rational price-setting, it argued, is central to protecting that right. The organisation also highlighted that affordable medicine prices not only reduce immediate costs but also encourage patients to complete prescribed courses of treatment, improving health outcomes and reducing long-term complications.

The Alliance extended special thanks to Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum and the Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant, Professor Dr Sayedur Rahman, for their leadership in advancing the policy. According to the statement, their efforts signal a commitment to restoring discipline, accountability and transparency in the pharmaceutical market, while also reinforcing public trust in the national health system.

NHA leaders further observed that the new pricing framework is likely to deter unjustified price hikes, create a more predictable market environment and strengthen regulatory oversight. They stressed that a fair pricing system benefits not only patients but also the broader health ecosystem by promoting rational drug use and sustainable healthcare delivery.

Looking ahead, the Alliance expressed optimism that effective implementation would depend on close cooperation among the government, regulatory authorities, medical professionals, pharmaceutical manufacturers and other stakeholders. With coordinated oversight and regular monitoring, the policy could serve as the foundation for a people-centred, equitable and sustainable health system.

The NHA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting future reforms in the health sector, pledging continued constructive engagement in initiatives that prioritise public welfare and long-term system improvement.

Key Features of the Approved Policy

In the Alliance’s assessment, the government’s decision represents more than an administrative reform; it is a strategic investment in public health that, if sustained, can help build a more just and resilient healthcare system for the future.