Withdraw licenses from health workers stealing drugs- NMS boss

The National Medical Stores management has decried

the continued theft of drugs reported across the country that is affecting drug

supply especially in Rural health facilities where the demand is even higher.

Speaking at the celebrations to mark 25 years since

establishment in 1993, the General Manager, Moses Kamabare suggested tough

penalties for all medical workers involved in drug theft.

The

agency which is charged with storage and distribution of government drugs to

public health institutions, is concerned that theft of medicines is affecting

peoples’ right to health.

“Pilferage is still an issue, diversion of medicine,

much as the conviction rate has risen to 100 per cent, the process is very

slow,” Kamabare said.

Kamabare

called upon the ministry of health to consider tougher measures against

culprits like; withdrawal of licenses.

“These health workers should be deregistered for at

least 10 years, with this other Practitioners will fear to take part in such

acts,” he said.

Kamabare

further noted the need to employ pharmacists at district level that are in

position to monitor medicines.

“We need professionals in the management of medicine

the medicines we send out are managed by unprofessional people.”

Amidst

meagre resources availed to the stores, the ministry of health has emphasized

the need to consider prevention of diseases.

“Our medicine need is Shs 1.3 trillion, not even

quarter of what government avails which currently stands at Shs 240 Billion,

amidst all, NMS still provides,” Minister of Health, Jane Ruth Aceng said. 

To

mark the 25 years of existence, National medical stores awarded people that

have seen them grow.