No Shortage of Psychiatric Medications: Minister Geela
Despite concerns raised by the public and members of Parliament regarding difficulties in accessing psychiatric medication, Health Minister Geela Ali has denied any such shortage. The Minister stated that these medications are imported under specific regulations and quotas, maintaining that they remain available to those in need. However, public anxiety continues to grow as reports persist regarding the unavailability of essential injections and medications required for rehabilitation.
Health Minister Geela Ali speaking at the People's Majlis. | People's Majlis
Health Minister Geela Ali has stated that she does not believe there are any difficulties in accessing medications for mental health conditions.
During Tuesday's People's Majlis sitting, the Minister was summoned for questioning by the Member for North Galolhu, Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudoo). The MP highlighted the ongoing difficulties in accessing medications for mental health treatment and inquired about the efforts being made to resolve the issue.
In response to the question, the Minister stated that psychiatric medications are imported into the Maldives under specific regulatory frameworks. She further noted that these medications are imported subject to strictly defined quotas.
The Minister further stated that she would not claim there are no difficulties in procuring these medicines.
Mental health patients require specialized medications, some of which are strictly regulated and can only be obtained through specific procedures and valid prescriptions. Certain categories of these drugs are also subject to import quotas in the Maldives. We are currently ensuring the continuous supply of medication to residents at the Guraidhoo Center, as well as to those who have been reintegrated with their families, as previously mentioned. At this time, I would not say there are any challenges or shortages regarding the supply of these medications.Health Minister Geela Ali
The Minister's remarks come in the wake of recent public outcry regarding the scarcity of essential psychiatric medications. Many have taken to social media to express their frustration over the unavailability of these drugs, including critical injections required for certain conditions.
Furthermore, during Tuesday's parliamentary sitting, Maavah constituency MP Ahmed Shakir noted that he had been alerted to the unavailability of an injection used in the treatment of mental health disorders. Additionally, Kendhoo constituency MP Mauroof Zakir stated that he had received reports regarding a shortage of medications required for rehabilitation services.
While Minister Geela stated that there are no difficulties in obtaining psychiatric medications, she had previously noted that doctors were instructed to prescribe alternative medicines available in pharmacies to address supply shortages. These remarks have drawn widespread public criticism.
