Pharmacist Kim Jerry Bot, Secretary of the Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Management Agency (PS-DMCMA), urged for increased vigilance and better quality control in the state’s medical supply distribution.
Pharm. Bot made this call during a workshop at Miango, Bassa Local Government Area. His comments emphasized how important it is to guarantee that only high-quality, safe, and effective pharmaceuticals are delivered to medical facilities.
Pharm. Bot praised the Plateau State government’s efforts in reforming the health sector, highlighting the support of the administration in fostering improvements at Plateau Health Centre, the state’s top tertiary facility. He attributed much of the progress to strategic planning and investments made in healthcare infrastructure and staff training, positioning the state to handle emerging health challenges.
A major point of concern raised during his speech was the discovery of substandard drugs circulating in the state. He recalled a case where a medication failed to dissolve after 48 hours, leading to health complications for patients. “We discovered that some people were dying because of that particular medication,” he said. “This situation calls for stronger vigilance in ensuring drug quality.”
In response to these challenges, Pharm. Bot announced the establishment of a Quality Control Lab at the PS-DMCMA’s warehouse. “Every medication that comes into Plateau State will be tested to guarantee its quality before being circulated into public health facilities,” he explained. This initiative, he emphasized, is crucial in preventing the distribution of harmful drugs and ensuring public safety.
Pharm. Bot also highlighted the role of local partnerships in strengthening the state’s medical supplies. “We already have a couple of products manufactured locally, and they are very affordable. Gradually, we will keep growing as opportunities come,” he noted, stressing that the collaboration with local manufacturers aligns with the agency’s goal of making healthcare both accessible and cost-effective.
He proudly shared that these efforts have resulted in a 63% reduction in the circulation of substandard medications. “In 2024, 32 states, including Plateau, recorded a drop in the circulation of substandard medications by 63%,” Pharm. Bot announced, applauding the success of the agency’s measures.
Furthermore, Bot called on healthcare professionals and policymakers to continue supporting the agency’s initiatives, stating, “We are guaranteeing you that medications circulated within health facilities will be of good quality, safe, effective, and affordable. The public’s well-being is our top priority, and we will continue to safeguard it.”
