PMGH pharmacy’s closure frustrates public

THE pharmacy at the Port Moresby General Hospital has been closed for almost a month and this has caused frustration among patients and medical staff alike.
The pharmacy was closed four weeks ago after it was broken into by thieves who stole computers, printers and accessories.
Patients seeking treatment cannot get their drugs there, and are instead given prescriptions to buy medicine at private pharmacies or go to private hospitals.
The cost at these private outlets is beyond the reach of most residents of Port Moresby.
“Port Moresby General Hospital is the nation’s premier referral hospital, and the Government should act immediately to such situations so the public do not suffer,” a public servant seeking treatment for a stomach complaint said.
“It is unfair for a simple public servant like me who can’t afford the high cost of drugs at private clinics,”he said.
Many patients with prescriptions walked away from the pharmacy disappointed that they could not be served.
Others with no money to go anywhere else just sat thee waiting, while those very sick slept on the base concrete floor waiting, hoping somebody will step in with some good news and attend to their needs.
Director of emergency services at the hospital, Dr Sam Yockopua, said this (closure of the pharmacy) cannot go on.
“This break and enter incident is unacceptable. The equipment stolen, which include computers, printers and scanners and other accessories, the pharmacy needs these items to operate normally.
“Those who have stolen the equipment should return them. Those who bought equipment which they suspect might be stolen from here should step forward and return them.
“Sick people are getting prescriptions and going away, and this has caused a lot of frustrations,” the director said.
It is understood one computer set has been recovered by police, but others are still missing.