DNA member Raghoenandan is asking the government for clarification over reported shortages of medicines and medical supplies at the Mungra Medisch Centrum (MMC) in Nickerie. According to the parliamentarian, patients and their relatives are increasingly having to purchase necessary supplies themselves, resulting in additional costs.
In a statement dated October 7, Raghoenandan expresses concern about the hospital’s supply situation. He says he has received reports of shortages of, among other things, Betadine, lactulose, bandages, dressings, plasters and hydrogen peroxide. Patients would therefore have to buy these products themselves, in some cases from supermarkets.
There are also said to be shortages of certain medicines, including potassium chloride (KCl) for intravenous administration. According to the reports received, patients have to have some medicines collected from Paramaribo. In addition to the purchase costs, they must then also pay for transport to Nickerie.
Raghoenandan describes this as a considerable burden for patients already facing financial difficulties. He believes that basic medical supplies should be available within the hospital.
“It cannot be the case that patients go to hospital for medical assistance, but then have to buy Betadine, dressings, plasters and other necessary supplies themselves. These are basic provisions that should be available in a hospital. The patient must not become the victim of shortcomings in supplies,” he states.
The DNA member also seeks clarity on a reported fee of SRD 350 for a so-called klemspuitje, which he says was previously available through the first-aid service. According to information he received, it is provided free of charge at the RGD polyclinic in Nieuw-Nickerie. He wants to know why there would be differences in the costs and availability of this provision.
In his statement, Raghoenandan refers to Article 36 of the Constitution, which he says recognises the right to health and establishes the State’s duty to promote general healthcare. According to the parliamentarian, that right must also be reflected in daily healthcare provision.
He asks the government and the ministerie van Volksgezondheid, Welzijn en Arbeid (Ministry of Health, Wellbeing and Labour) to look not only at the MMC’s financial resources, but also at procurement, distribution and inventory management. Timely replenishment of medicines and supplies is necessary, he says, to ensure continuity of care.
“The residents of Nickerie have the right to timely, affordable and quality healthcare. Essential medicines and medical supplies must not be a luxury, but must be available when patients need them,” Raghoenandan emphasises.
The parliamentarian calls on the government to provide a structural solution. The statement provided contains no response from the MMC or the ministry.
