To ensure effective management of essential drugs and logistics using international best standards and practices for sustainability, the Edo State Primary HealthCare Development Agency (EDSPHCDA) organized a stakeholders engagement meeting at the Office of the Executive Secretary, EDSPHCDA, Dr. Omosigho Izedonmwen in Ezoti, Benin City.
The meeting between the EDSPHCDA and the Private Community Pharmacy Owners in Edo State is part of a broader effort to improve the state’s primary healthcare facilities by renovation, ensuring that the PHCs are adequately staffed and equipped with furniture, essential drugs and logistics to provide quality care to the communities.
Dr Omosigho Izedonmwen, convener of the meeting advocated for a collaborative approach between the Government and Private entities to deliver the best possible healthcare services to the communities.
He also appealed for a loan repayment initiative at a subsidized rate from the stakeholders to strengthen the essential drugs program to commence.
The Acting Director, Essential Drugs and Logistics EDSPHCDA Pharmacist Valentine Eruaga appreciated the ES for convening the meeting. He stated that having a properly functioning pharmacy at the facility is necessary to ensure timely access to essential medications, enhance patient education and prevent medication errors.
Adding depth to the discussion, a key presentation was delivered by Pharmacist Damian Abure, EDSPHCDA Assistant Director, Essential Drugs and Logistics Department. He highlighted the importance of providing essential medicines at the Facilities, emphasizing their selection based on health needs, clinical efficacy, and cost-effectiveness for Edo’s continuous drug access and sustainability.
The importance of proper procurement practices was also highlighted by Mrs. Edith Idehen, Head of Procurement EDSPHCDA. She informed stakeholders about the pre-qualification process, which consists of two stages: financial and technical evaluations. This process is critical for selecting the most suitable partners and suppliers, ensuring that the Agency’s drug procurement is efficient and reliable.
One of the stakeholders at the meeting, Pharmacist Michael Edokpolor pledged the support of Private Community Pharmacy Owners. He assured the Executive Secretary of their willingness to partner with the Government in establishing a loan repayment initiative at a subsidized rate to the Agency to give the Agency a foothold to commence the provision of essential drugs and logistics at the PHCs. Ultimately averting stockouts and hereby ensuring continuous healthcare services for the communities they serve.
