Local Governments Push for More Hospital Drug Funds
The Malawi Local Government Association advocates for the interests of the country's 28 district and city councils.
MZUZU, Malawi - The Malawi Local Government Association is urging the government to allocate 50% of public health funds toward the purchase of essential medicines for district hospitals across the country, writes Tionge Hara.
"The frequent drug stock-outs in our hospitals are unacceptable," said Hadrod Mkandawire, executive director of the association.
"Increasing the drug budget for district facilities will help ensure medications are consistently available and improve care."
Mkandawire explained that drug shortages often force patients to go without treatment or purchase expensive medicines out-of-pocket.
Many Malawians cannot afford private care.
In addition to more funding for pharmaceuticals, Mkandawire said the government owes local health facilities over K16 billion for unpaid bills and services.
"The state has not been transferring the resources we need to fulfill our mandated responsibilities," he said.
"Until that changes, districts will continue to accumulate debts that jeopardize services."
The Malawi Local Government Association advocates for the interests of the country's 28 district and city councils.
It has urged the national government to raise the health budget from 9% to 15% of total spending.
"We hope the Ministry of Finance heeds our recommendation to allocate 50% of the health budget to district hospitals," Mkandawire said.
"It would significantly improve their ability to serve patients."