STO completes sourcing of essential drugs, shipments sent to islands
In a statement issued Saturday, STO stated that ongoing efforts aim to address the shortage of medicines.
The State Trading Organisation (STO) has completed sourcing essential medicines, with most shipments arriving in the Maldives this month, the company announced on Saturday. Distribution to islands is currently underway.
President Mohamed Muizzu announced on 24th of last month that all medicines would be available at reduced prices from 15th of next month.
There have been complaints regarding the unavailability of certain prescription drugs under the Aasandha scheme. Some medicines listed under Aasandha have not been dispensed through the programme, and some pharmacies have stopped issuing previously available drugs under the scheme, citing financial concerns. As a result, some patients have had to purchase medication at personal expense.
In a statement issued Saturday, STO stated that ongoing efforts aim to address the shortage of medicines.
"One of STO’s top priorities is to ensure easy access to essential medicines for the general public across the country," the statement read.
The company has been working with relevant government agencies to resolve the shortage. STO also outlined plans to ensure continuous availability of essential medicines nationwide to prevent similar shortages in the future.
According to STO:
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In addition to essential medicines, the most important and widely used drugs will be identified under the guidance of relevant health institutions and doctors.
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Measures will be taken to ensure sustainable and uninterrupted availability of these medicines.
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Efforts are underway to ensure that all generics on the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) approved drug list are available, as announced by the President.
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