Oral Contraceptives Open Only for Existing Users

The Pharmacists Association of Belize (PAB) and the Ministry of Health and Wellness have agreed to a twelve‑month phased rollout to enforce prescription requirements for most medicines.

The deal was reached at a stakeholder meeting on April 13 at the Western Regional Hospital. During the transition period, pharmacists will still be allowed to give medicines for chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension to patients they already know, even if the prescription has expired. Every transaction must be documented in the prescription register.

The phased approach applies only to non‑communicable disease medicines. Antibiotics and controlled substances remain under strict prescription rules with no exceptions.

Oral contraceptives will also continue to be dispensed only to existing users who previously had a prescription. Pharmacists cannot start new contraceptive therapy. A formal protocol for contraceptive dispensing has been submitted to the Ministry and is under review.

The Ministry has also reopened the list of over‑the‑counter medicines for revision. PAB has been asked to submit evidence‑based proposals for changes, supported by international standards.

Both sides say the transition is meant to give the public time to adjust, “not to create new entitlements”. A joint education campaign is planned, including videos on medication safety and outreach in rural areas.

“The twelve‑month transition protects patient continuity of care while the public is sensitised on the prescription requirements,” said Jada Parchue, president of the association.