According to the Ministry of Health, changes are planned to minimize the risks of the improper dispensing of psychotropic medications.

The Ministry explains that it studied the practice of prescribing and dispensing psychotropic medicines and identified significant shortcomings and risks. In particular, the Ministry found that doctors were issuing prescriptions for psychotropic medications without proper justification, diagnosis, or consultation with the patient. In some cases, prescriptions for psychotropic medicines were issued by doctors who did not have the appropriate authorization. Additionally, medicines were dispensed in doses two to three times higher than the prescribed daily dose.

“Under the leadership of the Minister for Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labour, Health and Social Affairs, Mikheil Sarjveladze, a meeting of the Professional Development Council was held, where the need to tighten control over the prescription of psychotropic medications was discussed.

The Ministry of Health studied the practice of dispensing psychotropic medications and identified significant shortcomings and risks. During the Council meeting, it was noted that doctors were issuing prescriptions for psychotropic medications without justification, diagnosis, or consultation with patients. In certain cases, prescriptions were issued by doctors who lacked the relevant authorization. It was also found that medications were dispensed in doses two to three times higher than the daily dose.

According to Council members, alongside the state, the role and responsibility of doctors are crucial in eliminating the flawed practice of dispensing psychotropic medications.

As explained by the Minister of Health, the facts identified as a result of the study and analysis go beyond legal norms and will be followed by appropriate action. Changes to relevant regulatory acts are planned to minimize the risks of improper dispensing of medications and to ensure maximum patient safety. Specific cases will be forwarded to investigative authorities for further examination. The Council will continue discussions on the issue of doctors’ professional responsibility.

The Professional Development Council includes representatives of the Ministry of Health and its subordinate agencies, medical institutions, and sectoral associations, as well as members of Parliament’s Health Care and Social Issues Committee. The Council makes decisions by a majority vote,” the statement said.