Health Ministry suffers €880,000 loss in warehouse damage

In a session before the Parliament's Health Committee, officials reported €880,000 in damages to 149 pharmaceutical preparations, affecting 105,401 packages stored at the Health Ministry's warehouses in the Strovolos industrial area due to a natural disaster on March 18. This information surfaced following an article in the "Phileleftheros" newspaper.

During the committee meeting, it was revealed that prior incidents of water ingress in the warehouse offices had occurred and were addressed by the premises' owner. Additionally, a 2019 warehouse condition audit highlighted areas of non-compliance with required standards.

Elena Panagiotopoulou, Director of Pharmaceutical Services, discussed the inspection findings from November 22, 2019, noting issues such as untidy space, lack of a thermometer system, non-functioning insect traps, and roof cracks allowing water seepage. She emphasized the need for immediate corrective action.

Christos Nicolaou, Head of the Purchasing and Procurement Directorate, detailed damages to medicines belonging to various entities, amounting to €880,000. He affirmed plans to relocate the warehouses by October 1, 2024, with the decision having been reaffirmed in February 2024.

Marina Georgiou, Senior Pharmacist, reported on-site inspections revealing damage to 149 formulations and 105,401 packages of medicines, totaling €880,000. Instructions were issued to replenish affected stocks and prioritize risk assessment.

In response to inquiries, committee members raised concerns about the quality of affected medicines, accountability, and the need for proper storage practices. Some MPs criticized the lack of corrective actions since the 2019 audit and called for accountability measures.

While acknowledging the severity of the situation, officials assured that there were no shortages of essential medicines and that patients' treatment would not be compromised. They underscored the importance of investigating the incident and ensuring adherence to storage standards.

Overall, the committee deliberated on the need for accountability, proper storage practices, and the safeguarding of patients' health amidst the warehouse damages. Further investigation and corrective measures were deemed essential to address the situation effectively.

[Information from 24News]