The Maldives has initiated a programme to enhance the availability of high-quality medications by introducing drugs approved by European health authorities. This step is part of a broader strategy to improve the nation’s healthcare standards and address issues related to medication quality and availability.
A joint statement from the Health Ministry, Finance Ministry, National Social Protection Agency (NSPA), Aasandha Company Limited, Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA), and State Trading Organization (STO) announced the launch. The statement outlined that the Maldives has commenced bulk procurement of medication through a pooled procurement arrangement with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The policy aims to ensure that all basic medications are available, with purchases made directly from manufacturing companies to maintain safety standards from production to patient delivery.
The authorities specified that only medications that are WHO-listed, registered with stringent regulatory authorities, or meet the quality standards of UNDP and MFDA will be imported. This new policy, implemented in phases, has already made the first seven medications available at STO for both wholesale and retail.
Modifications are being made to integrate this policy into the Aasandha system, with full implementation scheduled to begin on October 1, 2024. These changes, communicated to all public health sector doctors, aim to improve the sustainability of medication availability and control prices, while maintaining full coverage under Aasandha.
Additionally, the MFDA has stated that the bulk importation initiative will ensure a steady supply of prescribed medications, particularly for chronic diseases. Currently, medications imported and sold in private pharmacies often fail to meet demand, leading to inflated prices. The new measures aim to provide European-quality medicines at affordable prices.
Senior Pharmacist Aishath Jaleela from MFDA noted that some critical medications were previously unavailable due to low demand, making them unprofitable for companies to supply. The collaboration with UNDP is expected to secure consistent access to these essential drugs, addressing both supply and cost issues.
Medications and vaccinations for chronic diseases are often required in small quantities and are difficult to store for long durations. Despite efforts by STO, insufficient supply has posed challenges for patients. The partnership with UNDP aims to provide a sustainable solution, ensuring the availability of high-quality European medications in the Maldives.
The government have also initiated the establishment of a central monitoring system using advanced technology to enhance oversight of medication quality and quantity. This approach aims to resolve long-standing issues and improve healthcare outcomes in the Maldives.
