ISLAMABAD: Auditor General of Pakistan (AGP) has been asked to conduct special audit of Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) for past five fiscal years.
On the directives of Federal Minister for National Health Services Aamer Mehmood Kianithe health ministry had written a letter to AGP and requested to conduct the special audit of DRAP for the fiscal years 2012-2013 to 2017-2018, a statement said on Monday.
According to letter DRAP was established through DRAP Act promulgated on November 13, 2012.
The Authority is mandated to regulate Allopathic, Homoeopathic, Unani and Herbal drugs, medical devices, medicated cosmetics etc.
In view of its role that has a direct impact on the health and wellbeing of the people, the authority remains a subject of public scrutiny.
DRAP receives continued media attention alleging irregularities and malpractices regarding diverse areas being dealt by the authority as per its mandate.
It goes without saying that transparency and efficiency in functioning of the organization is of critical importance to meet the targets and ensure sustained availability of quality medicines to the masses.
In view of the foregoing, to further instill public confidence in the authority, it is requested to conduct a Special Audit of DRAP for the period 2012-2013 to-date of the Pricing Mechanism to ascertain whether prices of drugs are determined justly, in accordance with the laid down policy and as per law.
