Medical Provisions Post-Brexit

Abstract

There are three main factors behind the fears in relation to medical provisions post-Brexit. Here we examine what the potential problems are and the available solutions. The flexibility available to the UK government and regulators means that they should be able to overcome the regulatory barriers and minimise logistical delays in the supply of medicines. The MHRA has stated that “if no transition period is agreed, we would ensure the minimum disruption and burden on companies as the UK exits the EU.” However its latest publication (on 6th August) only addressed how the transition period would be implemented and does not provide any proposals on ‘no deal’ planning. Given the publicity that stories of shortages and stockpiling are attracting, the MHRA should publish more information on the steps it will take to avert these scenarios. The government should also underline its willingness to act unilaterally on tariffs and regulatory approval.

Keywords: Brexit, UK, Britain, public health, health spending, healthcare, health policy, government spending

JEL Classification: I18, I13, I12, H51