The Gauteng Department of Health says it is taking steps to address medicine supply challenges affecting some public healthcare facilities across the province.
The department says the shortages are being caused by several factors, including changes in medicine contracts, delays from suppliers, lengthy procurement processes and pressure across the pharmaceutical supply chain.
To deal with the problem, the department is monitoring medicine stock levels through the Stock Visibility System to identify shortages early and escalate them where necessary.
Health authorities say patients may sometimes receive the same medicine from a different approved manufacturer, packaging or pack size when a particular brand is unavailable. Where necessary, alternative strengths or pack sizes may also be provided in line with approved treatment guidelines.
The department says medicine can also be moved between facilities and districts to improve availability and reduce wastage. Suppliers may be approached to speed up outstanding orders, while emergency purchases from other approved suppliers can be made when urgently needed.
The department says these measures are aimed at ensuring patients continue to receive the medicines they need despite ongoing supply challenges.
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