The Zambia Medical Association (ZMA) has spoken out against Health Minister Sylvia Masebo’s recent claim that health workers are stealing medicines from public health facilities. The ZMA has called for a more constructive approach to addressing the ongoing shortage of drugs, urging the Minister to focus on finding a lasting solution rather than engaging in witch-hunts. The ZMA’s statement highlights the need for collaboration and cooperation between healthcare professionals and government officials in order to improve the delivery of healthcare services in Zambia.
The Health Minister’s recent claim that health workers are stealing medicines from hospitals has been met with skepticism by the Association Secretary General, Dr. Roy Tolopu. He argues that the Minister is too quick to blame medical personnel for shortages of medicines in hospitals, and that her warning to health workers is unfair and unfounded. Additionally, Dr. Tolopu points out that many pharmacies near public health facilities are owned by health workers, but this does not necessarily mean that they are stealing drugs from hospitals.
Dr. Tolopu has called on the Ministry of Health to thoroughly investigate the system and hold accountable any individuals found to be involved in such actions. It is unfair and unprofessional to blame the entire healthcare system for drug shortages without proper investigation and evidence.
Many public health facilities have been experiencing shortages of essential medicines, and instead of blaming the workers, the ministry should focus on finding long-term solutions to this persistent issue. It is important to address the root cause of the problem rather than making baseless accusations.
In response, a pharmaceutical expert has suggested that the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, implement a more effective system for distributing drugs to prevent any potential theft by healthcare workers. This would ensure that medications are distributed fairly and efficiently, benefiting both patients and healthcare providers.
Pharmaceutical expert Jerome Kanyika has challenged the claim made by the Health Minister that health workers are stealing medicines. Kanyika argues that the minister’s warnings are empty rhetoric without any concrete action being taken. He warns that this lack of action will continue to harm many Zambians who are in urgent need of medical drugs. Kanyika made these comments during an interview with Melo Media News.
To ensure transparency and accountability in the healthcare system, Mr. Kanyika suggests implementing a system to track the number of drugs leaving ZAMMSA warehouses, hospitals, and being dispensed to patients. This would help to identify any discrepancies and prevent any potential theft or misuse of medication.
