Problems with drug supplies: hospital stocks are calculated for only two to three months 0 22

1.5 million euros were allocated for their procurement and replenishment last year, with funding also planned for this year and subsequent years. However, while the situation with drug supplies in hospitals is gradually improving, there is a lack of resources for outpatient treatment.

The documents on the readiness of medical institutions for disasters mention both natural and man-made crises, but military risks are not taken into account, which complicates preparation for them, noted Liene Cipule, head of the Emergency Medical Service (EMS), at a meeting of the Saeima's Social and Labor Affairs Committee, adding that changes are planned in this area.

She reminded that the State Fire and Rescue Service is responsible for the early warning system in case of crises, while the stocks of medicines and medical materials are managed by the EMS. A procedure for the actions of the crisis communication group has also been developed, including for medical institutions.

The creation and management of drug stocks involves several levels: individual (reserves for the treatment of chronic diseases and home first aid kits), provision of medicines to the population in case of threats, participation of medical institutions, state material reserves that are used by institutions involved in disaster response if their own resources are insufficient, and requests for humanitarian and international assistance if the consequences of disasters exceed the country's capabilities. The state material reserves include medicines, injection and infusion devices, equipment for maintaining vital functions, bandaging and immobilization materials, logistics and special equipment, and more.

Funding for these purposes is provided in the budget of the Ministry of Health: in 2025, it is 1.551 million euros, in 2026 - 1.477 million, in 2027 - 1.099 million, in 2028 - 1.093 million euros. Currently, half of the items in the state material reserves are fully stocked, next year it is planned to fully stock another third, and subsequently allocate an additional 20% annually for the procurement and replenishment of drug reserves.

The EMS reserves for providing emergency assistance in crisis situations are distributed across 13 regions. Currently, the stock of medicines and medical materials in hospitals is mainly calculated for two to three months, while in Latgale (in the hospitals of Rezekne and Daugavpils) it is for four to six months.