Activity 2.6. regarding the Developing of the Recommendation for change of legal regulation(s) in accordance with EU Regulations 2005/36 was held at the University of Mostar Faculty of Pharmacy from October 9, 2023 to October 10, 2023. The activity was attended by representatives from almost all partner institutions in the IQPharm project – University of Sarajevo, University of Banja Luka, University of Split. At the very beginning of the activity, the dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Mostar – Full Professor Ivica Brizić, PhD, addressed the attendees, who emphasized that harmonization with European regulations is of key importance for pharmacy in Bosnia and Herzegovina for several reasons. European regulations set high standards for pharmacist education, ensuring that all pharmacists in Europe have a similar level of knowledge and skills. This ensures universal quality in the provision of pharmaceutical care. Harmonization of education with European standards facilitates the mobility of pharmacists between the countries of the European Union and other European countries. Pharmacists who are educated according to European standards can more easily be employed in other countries and contribute to the exchange of knowledge and experience. European regulations set high standards for the safety and effectiveness of pharmaceutical products and therapies. Education aligned with these standards ensures that pharmacists are able to provide patients with the best possible care and handle medications properly. Harmonized education encourages pharmacy schools and colleges to improve their programs in order to remain relevant and competitive in the European market. It also encourages research and innovation in the pharmaceutical industry. For pharmaceutical companies and drug manufacturers, the education of pharmacists aligned with European standards enables easier access to the European market and the export of products to the European Union. In front of the University of Sarajevo, Associate Professor Tamer Bego, PhD emphasized the activities and tasks implemented so far as part of the project that is nearing its end.
The president of the Pharmaceutical Chamber of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina – Prim Marin Crnogorac, MPharm, was also present at the activity, who emphasized that the Chamber firmly stands by this project and supports it. The Pharmaceutical Chamber of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina plays a key role in the educational process of pharmacists. The Chamber cooperates with relevant educational institutions to ensure that educational programs for pharmacists in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina meet high standards and regulations. The Chamber plays a key role in setting professional standards for pharmaceutical practices in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This includes defining the competencies and obligations of pharmacists and ethical guidelines for professional conduct. The Chamber frequently organizes symposia, congresses, workshops and educational events to enable pharmacists to continuously improve and follow the latest developments in the pharmaceutical industry.
In front of the University of Mostar, Assistant Professor Martin Kondža, PhD, head of this task for the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasized the importance of including all relevant parties in the process of making decisions on the education of pharmacists. Involving pharmaceutical professionals, educational institutions, regulatory bodies, patients and other stakeholders ensures that different perspectives and needs are considered. This helps to design educational programs that are comprehensive and ensure the acquisition of a wide range of competencies. Assistant Professor Nataša Bubić-Pajić, PhD, agreed with him, and emphasized that the decision-making process, which includes all relevant parties, ensures transparency and responsibility in shaping educational policies and programs. All parties have the opportunity to express their views and contribute to the process.
Representatives of the Federal Ministry of Health are familiar with the activities within this project, but due to their earlier commitments, they were prevented from attending this meeting in Mostar. The importance of involving all parties in the decision-making process on the education of pharmacists in Bosnia and Herzegovina cannot be underestimated. This inclusive approach ensures that educational programs are relevant, high-quality and focused on the needs of patients, which contributes to the improvement of pharmaceutical care and the overall healthcare system in the country.
