KARACHI: Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has expressed serious concern over critical shortages of life-saving drugs for heart disease and hepatitis across Pakistan, where Sindh and Punjab face particularly acute crises. Patients and healthcare providers have reported widespread lack of availability of these essential medications, raising alarm about the potential for serious complications and loss of life. The PMA has condemned the authorities for their negligence in addressing this health emergency, highlighting that delaying or stopping treatment could have dire consequences.
The PMA has highlighted that shortages disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, exacerbating existing health inequalities. It has called on provincial governments to take immediate action to ensure uninterrupted supply of these vital medicines. The association has also stressed the need for thorough research to identify the root causes of the shortage and implement measures to prevent future occurrences. Strengthening drug regulatory mechanisms and ensuring transparency in procurement and distribution processes are crucial steps that the PMA has recommended to mitigate this crisis.
The PMA remains steadfast in defending patients’ rights and has promised to monitor the situation closely. He has urged all stakeholders, including government authorities, healthcare providers and regulatory bodies, to work together to resolve the issue and ensure that all Pakistanis have access to the essential medicines they need to survive.