National Medical Stores addresses limited stock, emergency orders expected soon and investigates private clinic supply allegations.
There is a shortage of malaria drugs, including other essential medicines, at various HCC satellite clinics. The National Medical Stores (NMS) has clarified that limited malaria medication is in stock at the National Referral Hospital, with the next order expected to arrive in early August. An emergency order for malaria medicine and other vital antibiotics has also been placed, with the expected delivery by plane next week.
The NMS confirms that there is adequate stock of syringes, cotton wool, gauze, paracetamol, amoxicillin and water for injection. They are investigating why some clinics claim not to have these supplies, as reported on social media. The current process of restocking satellite clinics relies on orders from each clinic. Clinic managers are urged to monitor their stock and submit orders for medication and medical items early to avoid shortages and ensure that services are not disrupted.
In response to recent social media allegations suggesting that Hydrocortisone Injection is out of stock at the National Referral Hospital but available at private clinics, the NMS conducted checks against stock and records. It was established that none of the batches shown in the pictures match any orders from the National Medical Stores for 2021, 2022 and 2023. The NMS clarified that any stock from before 2021 would have already expired. Hydrocortisone is currently out of stock, with delivery initially expected in June but now delayed due to supplier issues.
A few private medical clinics have been identified as possessing batches from the National Medical Stores, and this serious allegation is under investigation. The NMS urges the public to come forward and formally report any known sale of drugs and medical supplies involving its staff.
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) confirms that stringent measures will be implemented at both the National Referral Hospital and the National Medical Stores to ensure that medicines and medical supplies are handled and distributed properly under strict supervision, to avoid leakages from the point of arrival to their distribution to clinics and patients.
