By Chisomo Phiri
Health Services Managers Network (HESNET) has appealed to the government to consider the increase of the budget allocations for drug and hospital rehabilitation programs in the country’s public hospitals to address stock shortages and enhance the overall efficiency of these services.
HESNET Chairperson, Dr.Henry Chibowa,made the appeal during HESNET’s second annual conference in Blantyre on Wednesday.
Chibowa expressed concern over the government’s decision to reduce funding for these programs, forcing hospitals to divert resources from other essential activities.
“The continuous reduction in budget allocations for drug and hospital rehabilitation programs is unfortunate.
“Considering the growing demand for medical drugs, it’s essential to revise the budget allocations to meet these needs,” said Chibowa.
He also highlighted the impact of inadequate funding on the supply chain, leading to monopolies, high prices, and counterfeit materials.
Chibowa said currently, the government allocates 10% of the drug budget and 17% for hospital rehabilitation activities to public hospitals.
“We propose a 50% increase in drug allocation and a 20% increase in hospital rehabilitation activities to address the current inadequacies,” he said.
On his part,Malawi Local Government Association (MALGA) Executive Director Hadrod Mkandawire emphasized the need for the development of a policy paper to align with the government’s decentralization programs.
In his remarks,Deputy Minister of Health Noel Chimpeni acknowledged the concerns raised and promised to explore possible solutions.
The conference organized by MALGA with support from UNICEF and Action Aid, brought together healthcare stakeholders to discuss pressing concerns and potential solutions.
