Health crisis continues to loom over hospitals in KP

PESHAWAR: The Secretary of Health in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has urgently sought assistance from the caretaker Chief Minister to address the critical shortage of medical equipment and emergency medicines, including anti-rabies vaccines and immunoglobulin, in hospitals across the province.

The gravity of the situation was communicated through a formal letter sent by the Secretary of Health to the Caretaker Chief Minister, shedding light on the dire need for immediate intervention. The shortage has resulted in a precarious healthcare scenario, raising concerns about the well-being of patients in need of essential medical treatment.

Health crisis grips KP as hospitals face critical medicine shortage

A staggering Rs 9 billion are estimated to be required to meet the pressing demands of hospitals throughout Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. However, the situation has been compounded by the lack of funds, leading to the unfortunate consequence that no orders have been placed for the supply of crucial medicines.

The health department now grapples with outstanding liabilities amounting to a substantial Rs 2.67 billion. This financial strain, exacerbated by a lack of funds, has significantly impeded the procurement of vital medical supplies.

During the financial year 2022 and 2023, a meager allocation of Rs 99.70 million was earmarked for the purchase of medicines, a sum that pales in comparison to the overwhelming needs of the healthcare system.

Complicating matters further, suppliers require a substantial 30 to 90 days for the delivery of ordered medicines, adding a logistical challenge to the already critical situation.

To address the burgeoning crisis, an urgent infusion of an additional grant totaling Rs 6 billion has been deemed necessary. The financial crunch has left the health department grappling with an untenable situation that jeopardizes the delivery of essential healthcare services to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

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This alarming situation prompted the Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to also pen a letter to the Caretaker Chief Minister, urging swift and decisive action to rectify the shortage of medicines and ensure the continued provision of quality healthcare to the residents of the province. The unfolding healthcare crisis underscores the urgency of addressing financial constraints and prioritizing the health and well-being of the populace.