The wastage of antiretroviral therapy medication used for treating HIV has significantly decreased following a collaborative agreement between the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This agreement, which was recently approved by the Cabinet, enables the ministry to procure the medication more efficiently.
Antiretroviral medication is crucial in managing HIV infections in individuals. Dr. Rachel Devi, Head of Family Health, stated that the agreement has enhanced the ministry’s purchasing power. She explained that for a small number of cases, it is challenging and costly for pharmaceutical companies to supply medication to just one country. However, through this agreement with UNDP, the ministry can access medication on a regional and global scale, making procurement more manageable.
Dr. Devi noted that the approach to procurement is now staggered, which helps in minimizing waste. The ministry can request medication as needed, allowing for better inventory management. She also mentioned that any surplus antiretroviral therapy could be redistributed to other Pacific Island countries if Fiji does not require it.
The latest medication introduced is Dolutegravir (DTG), which is proving to be very effective and patient-friendly. Dr. Devi highlighted the progress in treatment, where previously patients might have had to take nine to ten pills daily, but now often only need one tablet a day. This simplification of treatment not only improves adherence among patients but also results in minimal side effects, making the process of taking medication much easier for patients.