[co-author: Vicky Vlontzou]
The Belgian Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AFMPS) has announced that licensed hospitals are authorized to deliver medicinal products directly to outpatients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
On 20 April 2020, the Belgian Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AFMPS) announced that it would exceptionally authorize hospital pharmacies to deliver medicinal products directly to outpatients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The announcement provides that medicinal products delivered by the hospital will be reimbursed by the National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance (INAMI).
Patients who are able to visit the hospital themselves may collect their medicinal products, but they must respect the precautionary measures recommended by the hospital. These measures include collection directly from the hospital pharmacy or from a different location determined by the hospital.
Good Distribution Practices (GDP) must be guaranteed during the transport of medicinal products to ensure that their quality is maintained at the time of delivery to the patient. Storage conditions as well as the traceability of the products must also be guaranteed.
Since 14 March 2020, the Belgian health care sector has been advised to cancel and postpone all non-essential consultations, tests, and procedures in all general, university, and rehabilitation hospitals as well as private clinics throughout the country. The purpose of these limitations is to guarantee that patients with COVID-19 receive the best possible care. The most recent announcement confirms, however, that all urgent necessary consultations and examinations could take place if they occur in circumstances that guarantee the safety of patients and hospital staff.
The competent inspection services of the AFMPS and the Federal Public Service, health, food chain safety and environment (SPF) are monitoring the situation and will, where necessary, carry out spot-checks.
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