PGIMS Rohtak, a premier medical institute in Haryana, is grappling with a critical shortage of medicines as supply orders for 172 different types of drugs remain pending. This crisis has severely impacted patient care, with many essential medications unavailable for treatment.
Scope of the Crisis
The pending orders cover a wide range of drugs, including life-saving antibiotics, cardiovascular medications, and anaesthetics. The shortage has forced doctors to prescribe alternative medicines, which may not be as effective for certain conditions.
Reasons Behind the Delay
Administrative delays and procurement issues are cited as primary reasons for the pending orders. The hospital's pharmacy department has been unable to process orders due to a lack of coordination with suppliers and financial constraints.
Impact on Patients
Patients, especially those in emergency and critical care units, are bearing the brunt of the shortage. Relatives of admitted patients have reported difficulties in sourcing medicines from outside pharmacies, adding to their financial burden.
Hospital Administration's Response
The PGIMS administration has acknowledged the issue and assured that steps are being taken to expedite the procurement process. However, no concrete timeline has been provided for the resolution of the crisis.
Long-Term Solutions Needed
Healthcare experts emphasize the need for a robust inventory management system and regular audits to prevent such shortages in the future. They also call for better budget allocation and streamlined procurement procedures.
