Story by Lisa Masuku-Kurira
DRUG stock levels in most of the country’s referral hospitals have improved, averaging around 60 to 70 percent compared to last year’s figures, of around 40 percent.
The Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr Douglas Mombeshora, toured Bulawayo’s referral hospitals, Mpilo Central Hospital and United Bulawayo Hospitals, this Friday to appreciate challenges affecting the institutions.
During the tour of United Bulawayo Hospital’s pharmacy, the Minister noted that the stock of vital drugs and medicines in most central hospitals has increased to around 60 to 70 percent, compared to last year, when the nation closed the year at 49 percent.
“One of the most important things that I have seen today is that our drug levels have gone up, and on average, we are hovering between 60 and 70 percent. It is not the best. Ideally, we should be at 100 percent, but I can say it is good because of where we are coming from. Last year we ended at around 49 percent stock levels, now we have moved to 60 and 70 percent, and I want to thank the President for listening to our plight,” he said.
An adequate supply of vital medicines to public health institutions has made it easy for health workers to discharge their mandate effectively.
“When we have enough medicine, it means we can quickly stabilise our patients and quickly Institute any treatment modalities effectively,” United Bulawayo Hospitals Chief Medical Officer, Dr William Busumani noted.
The government is taking several steps to stabilise public health systems, including accelerating the procurement of essential medicines and ensuring the early release of funds.
