Shortage of medicines at government hospitals

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: With the fear of H3N2 spreading across the state, government hospitals are experiencing a shortage in life-saving drugs, angering patients who want the health department to do better.

After the tough years of the pandemic, naturally, the public is worried about the cases of H3N2 increasing in the state. Simultaneously, there has been an increase in cases of viral fever, cough and cold. Amidst such a dreadful atmosphere, patients at government hospitals have said that there is a shortage in vital drugs.

They have complained that even common emergency medicines such as fever pills and medication for BP as well as sugar tablets are unavailable, leading them to depend on private chemist stores. Paracetamol, insulin, penicillin and chemotherapy drugs are now to be bought outside at exorbitant prices.

“As the epidemic is continuing, the medicines required for viral diseases used short-term are facing a shortage. We have called for a short term tender and in the next 3-4 days, the tender will be open. 259 essential drugs will be available from April,” said Randeep D, Commissioner of Health and Family Welfare Services.

He added that the annual tender process is also taking place currently. Most of the medications are supplied under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. He explained that the department has given instruction that antibiotics must not be taken in case of an H3N2 infection unless and until a consultation is made with medical experts, and their advice is taken into consideration.