Pharmacy Practice in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract Pharmacy profession in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia has evolved substantially. The Saudi Pharmaceutical Society (SPS) was established in 1988 and became the only society representing pharmacists in Saudi Arabia the establishment of the Scientific Board of Pharmacy. The pharmacy profession and pharmaceuticals are regulated and controlled by various governmental agencies, such as the Saudi Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties, and the Ministry of Health (MOH). MOH provides healthcare coverage to approximately 60% of Saudi citizens. While the Saudi FDA is responsible for organizing pharmaceuticals, the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties is the responsible authority for accrediting pharmacists and regulating the policy of accreditation. Pharmacy practice–related activities, however, are organized and supervised by the Department of Pharmaceutical Care in the MOH. Nonetheless, each profession should endeavor to meet the challenges and difficulties that lie ahead. Inadequate numbers of well-trained pharmacists and scattered authority may be the most important challenges ahead. Harmonization of the pharmacy practices in Saudi Arabia will help to optimize pharmaceutical services and unify the vision.