Title
Senior Citizens Medicine Discount Rules
Law
Bfad Memorandum Circular No. 1
Decision Date
Feb 14, 1994
Senior citizens are entitled to a 20% discount on medicine purchases, requiring presentation of a national ID and doctor's prescription, with strict compliance and record-keeping mandated for drug outlets.
A

Requirements for Availing Discount

  • A senior citizen or their authorized representative must present a national identification card certified by the Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA).
  • For prescription drugs, a valid doctor’s prescription must accompany the purchase.

Limitations on Over-the-Counter Drug Purchases

  • The quantity of over-the-counter medicines purchased must correspond to the needs of the elderly person.
  • A pharmacist determines the appropriate number of units dispensed.

Record-Keeping Obligations

  • Drugstores must keep a special record book for Senior Citizens Discount under Republic Act No. 7432.
  • The record must include the following details:
    • Name and address of the senior citizen
    • National identification number
    • Generic name of the drugs/medicines dispensed
    • Number of units dispensed
  • These records are subject to inspection by Food and Drug Inspectors.

Procedures on Partial Filling of Prescriptions

  • In cases where a prescription is only partially filled:
    • The number of units dispensed and the unfilled balance must be recorded both on the prescription and the special record book.
    • The name of the drugstore where the partial filling occurred should be annotated on the prescription.

Exclusivity and Compliance

  • The discount privileges are exclusively for the benefit of senior citizens.
  • All drug outlets are required to comply with these provisions.
  • Food and Drug Regulatory Officers (FDROs) are tasked with monitoring compliance and reporting violations if any evidence arises.

Enforcement and Adoption

  • The guidelines and obligations expressed here were officially adopted on February 14, 1994.
  • Compliance ensures the protection and facilitation of benefits under the Senior Citizens Act to the elderly population.

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