The latest update to China’s National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL) was implemented from March 1, 2023. Alongside this, Shanghai released a list of 383 drugs that will be involved in the “dual channel” management system. This initiative allows insured patients in Shanghai to purchase these drugs at designated retail pharmacies with prescriptions issued by public hospitals, enjoying the same reimbursement policies as medical institutions. The goal is to ensure that all new drugs added to the NRDL are accessible to patients via retail pharmacies, even if not directly listed by major hospitals.
Challenges and Policy Adjustments
Despite initial challenges such as limited product offerings and zero-markup sales, which have affected the operation of “dual channel” pharmacies, the government continues to push forward with this measure. In February 2023, coordinated management rules for outpatients were issued, permitting eligible retail pharmacies to enjoy the same reimbursement treatment as medical institutions. This includes benefits such as three-month prescriptions and one-month medical insurance fund settlements.
Provincial Implementation
Provincial governments are now releasing “dual channel” management drug lists across the country as the new NRDL is implemented. Hunan recently released its latest list, including 123 new entrants, consisting of 115 western medicines and 8 traditional Chinese medicines in ready forms. Guangdong’s list includes 399 drugs, 108 more than in 2022, alongside 16 “dual channel” designated hospitals and 30 “dual channel” designated pharmacies.
Strategic Implications
These measures are designed to improve the accessibility and affordability of medications for patients, ensuring that they can benefit from the latest drugs covered by the NRDL. By expanding the “dual channel” system, the government aims to enhance the efficiency of drug distribution and reimbursement, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes for the population.-Fineline Info & Tech
