Fijians are currently experiencing significant challenges due to ongoing shortages of essential medicines, resulting in delays for patients who require critical treatments. The Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Services (FPBS), responsible for supplying over 200 healthcare facilities, has attributed these shortages to various external and internal factors.
These facilities include three divisional hospitals, 12 specialist hospitals, 21 sub-divisional hospitals, 94 health centers, and 47 nursing stations. FPBS Director Jeremaia Mataika highlighted that several suppliers have not adhered to their contractual obligations regarding the delivery of quality medicines, leading to a backlog as substandard batches have had to be returned.
“Sometimes, we discover that medicines are not of acceptable quality post-procurement, necessitating their return,” Mr. Mataika explained. “This situation is particularly critical for medicines needed for non-communicable diseases (NCD), causing a pronounced ‘shortage effect’ during times of increased demand.”
Additionally, bureaucratic delays in procurement approvals, especially from the Solicitor-General’s Office, have intensified this crisis. The combination of supplier lapses and internal delays has created significant gaps in the inventory of essential medications.
Minister for Health and Medical Services Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu confirmed that contracts with certain suppliers had been terminated due to failure to meet established standards. “When due diligence uncovers non-compliance, we take action,” he stated, adding that alternatives are sought to fill the voids caused by these terminations.
The impact of these shortages is particularly concerning for patients with chronic conditions, as they are unable to obtain necessary medications promptly, which could lead to increased health risks. Public health experts are urging a comprehensive reform of Fiji’s medicine procurement system to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency.
Critics have pointed out that the current frameworks established by the Financial Management Act 2004 and Procurement Regulation 2010 are too inflexible to respond effectively to urgent healthcare needs. A healthcare advocate emphasized, “This is not solely about processes or regulations. It’s about ensuring that every Fijian can access safe and effective medications when necessary.”
While the Ministry of Health and Medical Services has recognized the need for reforms, until significant changes are made, the country’s most vulnerable populations remain at risk. The situation calls for immediate attention to ensure that all citizens can regain reliable access to essential health services.
This challenge, although significant, offers an opportunity for systemic improvements in Fiji’s healthcare procurement framework, which could ultimately lead to a more resilient healthcare system and better health outcomes for all Fijians.
Summary: Fijians are facing critical medicine shortages impacting patient care, with issues arising from supplier failures and bureaucratic delays. Calls for procurement reforms highlight the need for better access to safe, effective medications, especially for vulnerable populations. Positive change may emerge from this crisis as the government seeks alternatives and aims to reform the procurement process for better future healthcare access.
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