The Gauteng Department of Health has admitted that some public facilities in the province are experiencing challenges with the supply of medicines.
The department said shortages are driven by, among others, supplier delays, changes in medicine contracts and broader pressures on the supply chain.
It added that stock can be moved between facilities and districts to address imbalances, while urgent medicines can be sourced from other approved suppliers.
The department’s outline comes as patients at public facilities continue complaining about the availability of some medicines, particularly chronic treatment.
Gauteng Health said the shortage of a particular brand, pack size or supplier’s product does not necessarily mean that a patient will be left without treatment.
Where a specific medicine is unavailable, facilities can provide another approved manufacturer or pack size or, where clinically appropriate, an alternative medicine in line with standard treatment guidelines.
Gauteng Health spokesperson Steve Mabona said, “The department recognises that medicine shortages can cause anxiety and inconvenience for patients, particularly those who depend on chronic medication.
“However, medicine availability is actively monitored, and interventions are implemented to minimise interruptions to treatment and ensure that available medicines are distributed as equitably as possible.”
The province is also working with the national Department of Health to mitigate these challenges.
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Mongezi Koko
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