MS SC579

Recognizes February 2016 as "Self-Care Month in Mississippi" to promote awareness of self-health care and nonprescription medicines.

Acknowledges that over-the-counter medicines approved by the FDA are safe and effective for treating minor acute and chronic conditions such as pain, colds, and allergies.

Notes that every dollar spent on over-the-counter medicines saves the U.S. health care system $6.00 to $7.00 annually, totaling $102 billion in annual savings.

Supports consumer empowerment through development of new nonprescription medicines and appropriate conversion of prescription medicines to over-the-counter status.

Encourages consumers, health care practitioners, policymakers, and regulators to communicate the benefits of self-care to reduce unnecessary medical visits and strengthen Mississippi's health care system sustainability.