The National Medical Stores under the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) wishes to clarify, there is sufficient national stock of sterile gloves and gauze of all sizes that is available, contrary to recent social media posts.
While Betadine 10% antiseptic solution is currently out of stock and Betadine 7.5% is in low supply, the Ministry and the National Medical Stores are actively monitoring the stock levels of these items alongside the team at National Referral Hospital and taking steps such as moving and distribution of supplies to address these supply and stock issues.
The statement follows claims by a medical worker at the National Referral Hospital (NRH) on social media that items such as gauze rolls, Betadine antiseptic solution, and sterile gloves were either limited or out of stock and advised the public to purchase their medication for use at the NRH operating theatres.
According to Mr. Wesley Kukutu, Manager of the National Medical Stores, this information is not accurate because currently there is sufficient stock of sterile gloves and gauze.
Currently, limited stock of Betadine solution is being closely rationed and distributed accordingly. Additionally, Betadine antiseptic solution is currently in a container at the wharf waiting to be cleared and should be soon distributed to health facilities.
“We are continuously working to monitor the stock situation for all health commodities, which includes more than 500 line items. While challenges exist, we are committed to mitigating risks and ensuring that the majority of these essential items remain available, free of charge, to the general populace,” said Mr. Kukutu.
Steps are currently being taken to strengthen internal communication among staff nationwide to provide updated information and timelines of supply, distribution and use of medicines and consumables. MHMS is committed to ensuring that concerns are raised and resolved through proper channels to respective managers and departments to avoid the spread of misinformation.
While the National Referral Hospital (NRH) continues to provide essential services throughout the festive season, the Ministry appreciates the public’s understanding and cooperation as it continues to prioritize the health and well-being of the nation.
The Ministry of Health wishes the public to ensure a safe and happy festive period noting a recorded increase in trauma and injury cases presented at the NRH and is a reminder for the public to celebrate the season safely and responsibly and to look after themselves and all other family and community members during this festive season.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services is working closely with relevant authorities to ensure the containers carrying Betadine antiseptic solution and other important medical supplies and consumables that arrived in Honiara on December 26th and are to arrive in the coming days and months are cleared quickly so that supplies at health facilities are replenished in a timely manner.
