We also asked Dr. Figueroa about the availability of certain prescription drugs. There has been a scarcity recently and Figueroa admits that is has something to do with the new standards for the importation of pharmaceuticals. But he assures the public, they are working on getting their usual supply and more.
Courtney Weatherburne, 7News
"In terms of medication, we have been getting countless reports of a lack of medication, the availability of medication specifically I believe diabetes medication among others as well. Could you please speak to us about that, is that connected to this new regulation in terms of the importation of medicine in the country?"
Dr. Ramon Figueroa, CEO. Ministry of Health
"I would say yes. Its part of us tightening up on regulations. It's us enforcing contractual obligations and so what we are seeing really are the effects of us enforcing rules and regulations. I hope and I believe that this is a short term negative effect. We are going through the bidding process right now for the next - and we believe that now the providers understand that there are rules and regulations that have to be followed. We have a responsibility to ensure that we have quality medications - that we get value for money, because it's the people's money that we are spending."
Courtney Weatherburne, 7News
"If you have the information on you right now, what are some of those medications that maybe some people won't be able to access right now and what should they do in the meantime?"
Dr. Ramon Figueroa, CEO. Ministry of Health
"Actually I believe that we have gotten most, if not all our medication. So we had been running out of some of the diabetic medication and hypertensive, but those things have been delivered. What you may run short of, I think we had some problems with some syringes, as well that is now in country and it's a matter of distribution."
Figueroa says he they will also be bringing in more mental health and dental medications.
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