BY CHRIS ALEX IN MAKIRA PROVINCE
WEST Makira and other remote regions in Makira Province, Solomon Islands, are facing a severe shortage of essential clinical drugs, posing a significant threat to the vulnerable population.
Exclusive ground reports on the dire situation confirmed individuals expressing desperation and hopelessness in response to this crisis.
Rolland, a registered nurse at Hauma clinic in West Makira, reported a shortage of essential drugs for nearly four months.
“The clinic has been experiencing a shortage of essential drugs for nearly four months, and immediate assistance is urgently needed.
“Despite implementing orders, medical professionals have been left helpless in the face of increasing patient needs due to the lack of respite,” the registered nurse said.
Staff experienced distress when they found themselves attending to patients with empty shelves in the clinic’s pharmacy.
The community’s vulnerable members were the only ones who were given the sole remedy of caution against falling ill.
Rolland advises his community to prevent illness and stay healthy, particularly for the vulnerable members.
“The situation is worsening particularly the weather on the coast of Makira province, where transportation remains a significant obstacle.
“Clinical drug shortages in Makira’s remote regions, including Tetere and Wango clinics, impact areas like Haununu district and West Makira constituency.
“The situation not only poses a threat to the immediate health of the population but also exacerbates existing vulnerabilities,” he added.
He said urgent action is required to tackle this crisis to ensure the health and well-being of the affected communities.
“Local authorities and healthcare ministries must swiftly ensure a steady and adequate supply of clinical drugs in remote areas to prevent potential catastrophe,” he warned.
