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.
