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Medical for Quality Healthcare in Zambia (MQHZ) has emphasized the need for sustained strategies to address the underlying causes of medicine shortages.
Organization Director General, Dr. Quincy Mwabu, said a robust and efficient supply chain management system was crucial for ensuring the consistent availability of essential medicines.
In a statement issued in Lusaka on Tuesdsy, Mwabu stressed the need to also prioritize transparency and accountability in medicine procurement and distribution which was vital for long-term success.
He noted that this requires investing in capacity building for Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency to effectively manage supply chains, leveraging technology such as digital tracking systems to enhance supply chain visibility and efficiency.
“By streamlining logistics, improving forecasting, and enhancing distribution networks, we can prevent stockouts and guarantee patients receive the medications they need,” Mwabu said.
He said this includes implementing anti-corruption measures to prevent medicine diversion, theft, and wastage, and publishing procurement data publicly to foster trust among stakeholders.
Mwambu emphasized that Regular monitoring and evaluation would help identify potential bottlenecks, enabling data-driven decisions to drive continuous improvement.
“Medical for Quality Healthcare in Zambia (MQHZ) warmly welcomes the government’s notable achievement in increasing the availability of essential medicines and renal commodities in public health facilities nationwide,” he said.
Mwabu highlighted that this follows the organization’s comprehensive inspections of health facilities, which revealed significant improvements in this critical area.
He said the milestone underscored government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery and demonstrated the progress achievable through focused efforts.
“This progress also critically boosts patient confidence in the healthcare system. As MQHZ, our shared goal is to create a healthcare system responsive to the needs of all Zambians,” Mwabu added.
He noted that achieving this goal required community engagement and participation in healthcare planning to ensure services met local needs, and ensuring equitable access to essential medicines for all, including marginalized populations.
Mwabu said by leveraging progress made and implementing strategic measures, the government could ensure essential medicines were consistently available, enabling patients to receive high-quality care they rightfully deserve.
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