FMC Jalingo debunks claims of drug shortage

The Federal Medical Center (FMC), Jalingo, on Tuesday debunked claims by some media organisations that the hospital was experiencing a severe drug shortage.

Mr. Haruna Abubakar, the Head of Protocol and Media Department at the hospital, while reacting to the publications in a press statement, urged the public to disregard the information, stating that the hospital remains fully operational and that essential medications are available.

“The attention of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jalingo, has been drawn to recent media reports alleging a severe drug shortage at the hospital. While we acknowledge that there have been some supply chain challenges, the situation is not as dire as portrayed in certain publications.

“It is important to set the record straight with the following facts: When this administration took over nearly five years ago, we inherited a significant debt related to drug supplies. Since then, we have remained proactive in settling outstanding payments to ensure uninterrupted drug availability for our patients.

“FMC Jalingo has a strong working relationship with its pharmaceutical vendors, despite efforts by certain elements to sabotage our progress.

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“The hospital management is actively engaging with the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to streamline access to medications for enrollees. Our budget has been submitted to the Federal Ministry of Finance, and we anticipate a resolution to these challenges by the end of March 2025.

“FMC Jalingo remains fully operational, and essential medications are available. We invite members of the public, journalists, and stakeholders to visit our pharmacy and wards, including the Accident and Emergency unit, to verify the facts firsthand. While no hospital in the world has all drugs at all times, we wish to assure the public that all essential medications are stocked. For any unavailable drugs, patients are advised to source them externally, as is standard practice globally.

“FMC Jalingo is not in the business of providing free drugs but remains committed to ensuring affordable and accessible medications for all patients. NHIS enrollees continue to receive prescribed drugs within the coverage framework, and we take pride in maintaining the highest standards of medical service delivery.

“We urge the public to be wary of sensationalized reports that do not reflect the true state of affairs at FMC Jalingo. Our priority remains the well-being of our patients, and we will continue to work tirelessly to provide quality healthcare services,” the statement read.