|
PCCB now moves to check prices of drugs in Manyara
2007-09-20 10:04:05
By Charles Masayanyika, PST, Babati
Shortage of essential drugs at Mrara district hospital in Babati, Manyara region has prompted action by the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) following complaints by residents that the prescribed medicines were sold in nearby private pharmacies at exorbitant prices.
Speaking at a public rally organised by PCCB office in the area, the residents requested the government to device a strategy to make sure that drugs received from Medical Stores Department (MSD) were marked for identification to curb pilferage by some unscrupulous medical practitioners.
Babati residents alleged that the medicine which is always not available at the district hospital ended on shelves of privately owned pharmacies, allegedly property of the general practitioners.
However, the residents looked hesitant to speak openly about the tribulations endured at the hospital in fear of reprisals.
``We appreciate the initiative taken by PCCB to convene this meeting that has given us the opportunity to air our grievances.
But unfortunately we can`t because the setting of the event is wrong in the first place. How would you expect any of us to speak in public against the physicians at the district hospital, the place we seek medical solace?`` said Meshack Ibrahim amid a big clap.
The concern touched nerves among the attentive PCCB officials, especially when another villager boldly spoke of the ordeal that low-income earners suffered when seeking inaccessible medication at the hospital after walking long distances.
Clarifying on the situation, the medical in-charge, Theophil Gaare said the biggest challenge in the hospital was the minimal supplies received from MSD that did not correspond with the growing number of patients.
With regard to availability of drugs in privately owned pharmacies in the neighbourhood, Dr Gaare said the facilities had entered into a special agreement with the ministry of health and social welfare to provide service under the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
He named Ikizu Pharmacy in the area being authorized to provide the service and not any other. He also warned nurses against abusive language.
Responding to claims that people suffering from various communicable diseases were placed in a single ward, again Dr. Gaare said limited space was the major factor.
|
