New Caledonia: Partial pharmacists strike starts on August 14

Event

A number of pharmacists across the country launched an indefinite strike on Monday, August 14. Residents reported on Tuesday, August 15, that some pharmacies have remained open during the strike, but said that wait times at those locations were significantly longer than usual. Prior to the start of the strike, the government announced that one “duty pharmacist” will remain open for each of the four regions of New Caledonia’s principal island of Grande Terre, and a list of on-duty pharmacists will be displayed on pharmacy premises. On the Isle of Pines and Loyalty Islands, pharmacies will be open for reduced hours, while the local dispensary will provide assistance outside these hours.

Context

The Pharmacy Union is calling for the government to immediately lift the current  drug price freeze, which has been extended five times since 2014. Union members are also demanding the government implement a new system for calculating tariffs that complies with a law passed in March.

Advice

Individuals in New Caledonia are advised to anticipate reduced pharmacy services for the duration of the strike and to replenish home pharmacy supplies ahead of time. More generally, travelers are advised to purchase health insurance covering overseas care and medical repatriation prior to departure for the territory in case of a significant or urgent health issue.