Fijians are currently grappling with ongoing medicine shortages, which have resulted in significant delays for patients needing essential treatments. The Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Services (FPBS), responsible for supplying over 200 healthcare facilities across the country, attributes these shortages to both external supply issues and internal procedural challenges.
Among the impacted facilities are three divisional hospitals, 12 specialist hospitals, 21 sub-divisional hospitals, 94 health centers, and 47 nursing stations. Jeremaia Mataika, the Director of FPBS, revealed that some suppliers have failed to deliver quality medicines as stipulated in contracts, leading to the return of substandard products. He noted, “Sometimes, we find out medicines are of no good quality after procurement, and we have to send them back.” This situation particularly affects the supply of medications for non-communicable diseases, leading to what he describes as a “shortage effect” when demand increases.
Additionally, bureaucratic delays in the procurement approval process, especially from the Solicitor-General’s Office, have further intensified the crisis. Such internal bottlenecks, combined with lapses from suppliers, have left critical gaps in the availability of essential medicines.
Health Minister Dr. Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu confirmed that contracts with several suppliers had been annulled due to non-compliance with agreed standards. He emphasized, “When due diligence identifies non-compliance, we act,” while noting that alternative solutions are being explored to fill the supply gaps.
The consequences of these medicine shortages are dire, particularly for patients with chronic conditions, as timely access to effective treatments is crucial for managing their health. Public health experts are advocating for a thorough reform of Fiji’s medicine procurement process to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency. Critics argue that the strict frameworks set by the Financial Management Act 2004 and Procurement Regulation 2010 limit the ability to swiftly tackle urgent public health needs.
Healthcare advocates insist that reform is essential, asserting, “This is not just about processes or regulations. It’s about ensuring every Fijian can access safe, effective medicines when they need them.” While the Ministry of Health and Medical Services recognizes the necessity for change, vulnerable populations remain at risk until significant systemic modifications are enacted.
In the face of this challenge, there is hope for future improvements as experts and officials work together toward reforming procurement processes, ensuring that all Fijians can obtain the medicines they need promptly. Collaboration and innovation could lead to a more effective healthcare system, ultimately benefiting patients nationwide.
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