Ministry of Health Aims to Prevent Drug Supply Crises Through Weekly Stock Monitoring

The Ministry of Health intends to monitor the consumption and stock levels of medicines used in national health programs on a weekly basis, while also increasing national reserves of critical drugs, in order to prevent supply disruptions in hospitals. Minister of Health Alexandru Rogobete announced that initial solutions have been discussed with representatives of pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors. The meeting was also attended by representatives from the Romanian Association of International Pharmaceutical Manufacturers (ARPIM) and the Association of Generic Drug Manufacturers in Romania (APMGR).

• Weekly Reporting and Identification of Critical Points

Proposed measures include weekly reporting to the Ministry of Health regarding the consumption and stock levels of medicines used in national health programs, the identification of vulnerabilities in hospital supply chains, and the replenishment of national reserves of essential medicines. According to the Minister, special attention will be given to treatments required for oncology patients, individuals with cardiovascular diseases, and those with rare conditions. Increasing these reserves is intended to facilitate rapid intervention should supply issues arise. Potential solutions include the redistribution of medicines between hospitals, based on specific needs.

• Financial Pressure: A Vulnerability of the Healthcare System

Alexandru Rogobete emphasized that patients should not have to search for medication across multiple hospitals to continue their treatment. "Patients should not have to run between hospitals to find their medicines. The Ministry of Health must ensure that medications reach the patients," the minister stated. He further pointed out that the financial pressure accumulated over the last few months has exposed vulnerabilities within the healthcare system-specifically in instances where funding fails to keep pace with the actual needs of hospitals and patients. The announced measures aim to improve stock monitoring and establish reserves, enabling a more rapid response in the event of supply disruptions.