KUALA LUMPUR – The supply of selected medicine to public hospitals is not completely disrupted, but distributed in stages to meet demand, said a hospital director.
Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital (HRPB) director Dr Abdul Malek Osman in a statement today said due to Covid-19 and international issues caused by the pandemic, there is a disruption of medicine supply.
“The supply of medicine is not cut off completely, but it will be supplied in stages to meet procurement needs.
“The demand for medicine to treat Covid-19 patients around the world has increased since May,” he said, adding that the demand for these drugs has increased by six to 11 months’ worth of supply during the pandemic.
His response comes after a memo was sighted by The Vibes, saying public hospitals are facing a supply disruption of selected medicine because of Covid-19 and international pandemic-induced measures.
The memo said the high demand for Covid-19 treatment nationwide has led to a severe drug shortage, exacerbated by lockdown restrictions in various countries that, in turn, have affected the supply chain.
The August 4 internal circular was signed by HRPB Pharmaceutical Department head Normi Kamaruzaman.
“The internal circular was released as an early preparation, followed by planned responses to overcome the disruption to the supply of medicine,” said Dr Malek, adding that the Health Ministry has been trying to overcome the problem.
“The ministry is trying to make emergency procurements, and working with the chief of infectious diseases specialist and contract suppliers to find alternative measures and medicines that can be used to treat patients.
“The hospital is committed to ensuring the situation is constantly monitored, and any issue will be solved as best as possible.” – The Vibes, August 7, 2021
