Nimba County—The Chief Pharmacist of Liberia, Dr. Joshua T. Peter Jr., has issued a warning to officers in charge at public clinics and hospitals nationwide to refrain from prescribing medications that patients must purchase externally.
He stated that there are currently no drug shortages in government health facilities across the country.
In an interview with Front Page Africa, Dr. Peter emphasized that public health facilities, including clinics and hospitals, are prohibited from issuing prescriptions for medications outside the facilities.
He disclosed that a $4.7 million fund has been provided by President Joseph Boakai-led government for the procurement and distribution of essential medicines to health facilities since January of this year.
By: Franklin Doloquee
Dr. Peter has called upon patients to report any health workers who attempt to issue such prescriptions or who engage in the sale of medications.
“The funding provided by the Boakai-Koung administration has significantly improved the availability of drugs in public health facilities,” he said, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring that patients receive necessary medications without the need for external purchases.
He added, “We have successfully distributed a substantial supply of drugs to clinics across the country. From the beginning of 2024 and onward, no public health facility should complain about drug shortages.”
The Chief Pharmacist made these remarks during the Pharmaceutical Association of Liberia (PAL) Annual Retreat 2024, held under the theme: “Bridging the Gaps, Building a Resilient Pharmaceutical Sector in Liberia.”
Also, Dr. Juwe D. Kercnla, president of the Pharmaceutical Association of Liberia, expressed confidence that the retreat would enhance their efforts and foster unity within the organization. He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the association’s goals.
Participants, including Dr. Sampson K. P. Chea, an assistant professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Dr. Paye L. P. Torgon, director of Testing and Evaluation at the Liberia Pharmacy Board, praised the leadership for organizing the retreat, referring to it as an enlightening experience that opened new perspectives for members of the institution.
