Health Ministry Refutes Shortage of Antiretroviral Medicines

The Ministry of Health has denied claims of a shortage of antiretroviral medicines in the country, assuring people living with HIV that the medicines remain available at health facilities.

The Ministry said antiretroviral medicines are currently available at health facilities across Ghana to support the continued treatment and care of persons living with HIV.

The clarification follows a statement by the Network of Persons Living with HIV in Ghana (NAP+ Ghana), which raised concerns about the availability of antiretroviral medicines.

In a statement signed and issued by the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Tony Goodman, on Tuesday, the Ministry explained that it was restocking commodities at the Medical Stores as part of its routine procurement and supply processes.

It said the restocking was intended to support the sustained availability and timely distribution of medicines and other essential health commodities to health facilities across the country.

The Ministry also rejected suggestions that antiretroviral medicines had expired at the ports. It said it was working with relevant stakeholders to ensure the effective management and timely clearance of medical commodities.

According to the Ministry, it has engaged NAP+ Ghana and assured the organisation of its willingness to address concerns about the availability and distribution of antiretroviral medicines.

The Ministry said it remained committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that persons living with HIV have uninterrupted access to the medicines and services they require.

It further assured the public, particularly people living with HIV, that it would continue to safeguard access to essential medicines and maintain adequate measures to ensure the availability and equitable distribution of antiretroviral medicines across the country.

Priscilla Osei-Wusu Nimako, ISD