China cuts retail prices of 67 drugs
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2006-06-01 16:20
The Chinese government has cut the retail prices of 67 drugs used for the
treatment of cancer by a range of anywhere from 23 percent to 57 percent in a
response to public complaint over soaring prices for drugs and medical services.
The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) said in a statement
Thursday that the move is aimed at reducing the financial burden of medical
services on the public.
The NDRC said it has begun by reducing cancer drugs as these are usually very
expensive.
Of the 67 drugs, 23 used to have their prices determined by the market. They
were included on the list of drugs whose prices are fixed by the government last
year.
Preparations for the move was started in late 2005. The NDRC said it had
conducted a thorough investigation of the market and extensive consultations
with industry sources and local authorities.
Further adjustments of drug prices can be expected, the NDRC statement said.
|
