92 out of 383 essential drugs in short supply: Keheliya

While admitting that there was a shortage in 92 out of 383 essential drugs, Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said today the 14 vital drugs were in stock.

He told Parliament that however these 14 vital drugs were not in stocks at Medical Supply Division, but were available in the periphery.

Responding to a question by Parliamentarian D. Weerasinghe, the Minister said shortage in essential drugs have not gone out of control and that substitutes are available for such medicine.

He said shortage in drugs could be resolved shortly and that steps are being taken to maintain the stock of drugs for three to six months.

Responding to another question raised by SJB MP Rohini Kumari Kaviratne, the Minister said media was magnifying the situation in the country with regard to malnutrition among children and other issues.

Responding to SJB MP Ashok Abeysinghe who said Heparin injection is out of stock at the moment, Minister Rambukwella said steps are being taken to airlift the vials if required. (Ajith Siriwardana and Yohan Perera)