Overview

According to the Directive on the application of patients’ rights in cross-border health care, medicines legally prescribed in a Member State should be dispensed by pharmacists in other Member States in which the medicinal product is authorised. We explored potential challenges from a public health perspective, which could arise when this provision is implemented. Our research included a mystery shopping experiment in which we presented prescriptions prescribed in other European Union countries in pharmacies. We conclude that, overall, the provisions on mutual recognition of medical prescriptions in the Directive do safeguard patient safety. Yet, clear information and guidelines for pharmacists and prescribers on the legal framework are indispensable to ensure effective implementation.