Conselho Regional de Farmácia do Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul

The Conselho Regional de Farmácia do Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul (CRF‑MS) is the state‑level regulatory authority responsible for overseeing the practice of pharmacy within Mato Grosso do Sul. It registers and licenses pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, ensuring they meet the educational and ethical requirements set by national legislation. The council also monitors pharmacy establishments to verify compliance with sanitary and operational standards. Through its various departments, it provides guidance, processes complaints, and applies disciplinary measures when necessary.

Operating exclusively within the territorial limits of Mato Grosso do Sul, the CRF‑MS serves all pharmacy professionals and establishments located in the state. Its jurisdiction covers urban centers as well as rural municipalities, aiming to guarantee uniform standards of pharmaceutical care across the region. The council’s activities are aligned with the directives of the Federal Pharmacy Council and national health policies.

A distinguishing attribute of the CRF‑MS is its role as a public autarchic entity that combines regulatory functions with educational initiatives to promote continuous professional development. It organizes courses, workshops, and seminars aimed at updating pharmacists on new therapies, legislation, and best practices in patient safety. The council also maintains a registry of accredited pharmacy establishments, which serves as a reference for both professionals and the public. These competencies position the CRF‑MS as a key actor in safeguarding public health within the state.

In March 2024 the CRF‑MS experienced a cybersecurity incident in which a hacker intrusion locked internal systems and disrupted services such as the CRF‑MS em Casa platform. The organization reported that no data were accessed and that backups remained intact, allowing it to restore operations from backup sources. Following the attack, the council notified the Federal Police, activated emergency communication channels including phone, WhatsApp and email, and kept professionals informed while working to normalize services.

Structurally, the CRF‑MS is part of the nationwide network of regional pharmacy councils that operate under the auspices of the Federal Pharmacy Council, receiving guidance and adhering to nationwide standards. As a public entity, it is accountable to both the state government and the pharmacy profession it serves.