By Peter Kuol Kuch
Authorities in Bor, Jonglei State, have confirmed a critical shortage of essential medical supplies for both the inpatient and outpatient departments at Bor Hospital.
Speaking to No. 1 Citizen Newspaper, Bor Hospital Medical Director Dr. Bol Chaw revealed that the facility’s last significant consignment of medical supplies arrived in April, approximately three months ago, delivered by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
Dr. Chaw stated that over the past few weeks, patients have faced immense challenges accessing anti-malarial and antibiotic drugs, which are among those already out of stock at the hospital.
“This is a dire situation. Currently, the hospital is experiencing a severe lack of drugs, especially now that it’s malaria season,” said Dr. Chaw. “Many people come here for admission, but there are no drugs.”
The Medical Director attributed the shortage to Jonglei State’s ever-increasing population and the high number of patients referred from neighbouring counties. These factors contribute to drugs not lasting for their anticipated duration, as many patients seek treatment at Bor Hospital.
Dr. Chaw explained that the scarcity of drugs at Bor Hospital has forced many patients to incur additional costs by purchasing medications from private clinics.
“Well, there is nothing we can do,” added Dr. Chaw. “We normally send them to buy the drugs they need from the market. I know it’s hard on some people, but there is nothing we can do.”
Rebecca Achok, a mother who was admitted at Bor Hospital, described the situation as “pathetic,” noting that patients are compelled to buy drugs expensively from private clinics. She added that many patients admitted to the hospital cannot afford the cost of purchasing medicines and accessing treatment in private clinics, exacerbated by the country’s on-going economic challenges.
“When I was admitted at the hospital, I suffered a lot because I didn’t have enough money to buy drugs from the market,” stated Achok. “And it’s indeed an issue for everyone; not everyone can afford to buy drugs from the market. A patient can be rushed to the hospital with no money, and this can delay their medical intervention.”
Meanwhile, Achok appealed to the National Ministry of Health and partners for an urgent supply of drugs to improve the critical situation.