“The beginning of this year marked the introduction of the new amended medicine pricing regulations, which have been a bone of contention for a number of years. The initial regulations were proposed in 2004 and were immediately challenged by the retail pharmacies. The matter was heard in the Cape High Court, Supreme Court of Appeal and finally in the Constitutional Court where it was declared that the regulations were invalid and had to be amended. The government has committed itself to reducing the cost of medicines and healthcare to patients in an attempt to improve the overall welfare and health of the nation. While the government may have good intentions in wanting to increase access to medicines and good quality healthcare, the imposition of price controls results in many unintended consequences. In the long run these controls will merely compromise SA’s healthcare system and reduce access to medicines.” (01/30/07)