Health Minister Warns of Strict Action Over Medicine Shortages in Hospitals
Hyderabad: Health Minister C. Damodar Raja Narsimha issued a strong warning on Monday to officials and staff, emphasizing that serious action would be taken if patients in government hospitals suffer due to a lack of medicines.
Speaking at a workshop on Pharmacy and the E-Aushadhi platform at the MCRHRD Institute in Hyderabad, the Minister expressed concern over reports of medicine shortages despite the government’s efforts. He stated that the government had acted on feedback and suggestions by providing necessary resources, such as human resources, equipment, and vehicles for medicine distribution. Central medical stores have been set up in every district, and internet facilities have been made available in all pharmacy stores and CMSs (Central Medical Stores). He added, “We are providing all the medicines you have requested, but there are still complaints of shortages.”
The Minister urged hospital superintendents and senior officials to investigate the cause of this issue. He warned that negligence would not be tolerated and that strict action would be taken against any officer or staff member found responsible. “If we find that a patient anywhere is suffering due to this, we will not hesitate to act,” he stressed.
To address the problem, the Minister announced the formation of a three-member committee in each district to closely monitor the availability and distribution of medicines. The committee will include the District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO), the District Coordinator of Hospital Services (DCHS), and the superintendent of the teaching hospital in the district. Their role will be to ensure that medicines are stocked and supplied promptly wherever needed.
The Minister also called for better coordination among pharmacists, doctors, and hospital superintendents. Pharmacists were instructed to inform doctors about the available stock of medicines, while doctors can also check this information on the e-Aushadhi portal. Additionally, superintendents and Resident Medical Officers (RMOs) were directed to inspect pharmacy stores every morning, verify stock levels, and ensure medicines are stored properly. Any issues must be resolved immediately, he added.
By implementing these measures, the government aims to ensure that patients in government hospitals receive the care they need without unnecessary delays or difficulties.
