Bird, CPL partner to end drug shortage

In a historic move to address the ongoing medicine shortage in East Sepik Province, Governor Allan Bird has announced a landmark partnership between City Pharmacy Limited [CPL], the East Sepik Provincial Health Authority, and the East Sepik Provincial Government.

The agreement, signed on Tuesday, is the first of its kind and aims to ensure Sepik residents have fast access to quality medicines, free of charge, even when hospitals face shortages.

Under the arrangement, a K500,000 payment from PSIP funds approved last year will be raised by the East Sepik Provincial Assembly and paid directly to CPL. Patients who present at Boram, Maprik, or other facilities and are issued prescriptions during medicine shortage to collect their required medicines at CPL outlets in Wewak and Maprik.

Plans are underway for CPL to establish additional outlets in Angoram and at Boram Hospital. CPL will provide monthly reports for transparency purpose.

Governor Bird expressed deep concern over the overcrowded conditions at Boram Hospital, witnessed firsthand during a 2am visit on Monday, where patients were forced to sleep on the floor due to no bed space.

While the Governor acknowledged delays in government processes, he urged the PHA and the Provincial Tender Committee to expedite the hospital’s expansion.

This pilot medicine access program, if successful, will be incorporated into East Sepik’s annual budget planning. Governor Bird thanked Sir Mahesh and CPL for their commitment and called on medical workers to help make this initiative a success.