The Ministry of Health and Wellness is defending its enforcement of an existing drug policy, but confusion and backlash continue to grow over access to contraceptives.
At a press briefing this morning, Director of Public Health and Wellness Dr Melissa Diaz Musa insisted the policy has been widely misunderstood.
She said, “We have not introduced any new law or any new rule regarding medicines, and I am uncertain where the many views on social media over the last week regarding women’s rights have surfaced from and why there is a perception that asking for a prescription equates to the violation of a woman’s right.”
Dr. Musa argued that requiring prescriptions strengthens women’s rights through informed medical guidance.
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“The request for a prescription for contraceptives after having a proper doctor’s or nurse’s consultation ensures that your rights have been fully exercised as you have determined the safest, the most effective, and the best birth control method for you,” she said. “you are now an informed and consenting woman. We are exercising that right for you.”
While she acknowledged gaps in the communication of this requirement,Dr. Musa pointed out the concerning indication of the high number of people buying prescription drugs without one.
She added, “We did not conduct the number of consultations that we should have to sensitise and to inform the public of the differences between the over-the-counter medication and the importance of getting a prescription for prescription-only medication. A large-scale public health campaign should have been conducted simultaneously with the discussions that we had with store owners and the Belize Pharmacy Association.”
The Ministry says the revised list actually expands access to some medications and maintains that contraceptives remain widely available through free public healthcare services, repeat prescriptions, and rural clinics.
Still, critics warn the reality may be different. For many women, especially in rural areas, a prescription could mean added cost, travel, and delay.
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