THE Eastern Cape Department of Health recently clarified that there is no shortage of medicines. The Department’s Director of Communications, Siyanda Manana, said it aims to streamline its cash flow by ordering medication based on availability at depots. If an item has been at the depot for more than seven weeks, ordering may be delayed to avoid financial over-commitment to suppliers.
“Financial sustainability is a key pillar among the Department’s five strategies. The Pharmaceutical Directorate seeks to achieve financial health through staggered ordering. The Pharmaceutical Unit monitors stock availability at depots in Mthatha and Gqeberha, which aids in financial sustainability,” he clarified.
Manana added that previously, inefficient stock monitoring led to overordering and resultant financial strain, keeping stock on shelves for extended periods. This inability to streamline cash flow has impacted the Department’s Goods and Services budget.
“The Department apologises for any previous communication suggesting restrictions on medicine ordering, which triggered panic. It reassures the public that there is no medicine shortage and is committed to not compromising patient care, seeking to ensure longer and healthier lives for citizens,” the director concluded.
