In a bid to eliminate drug stockouts, the Executive Secretary of the Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (EDPHDA), Dr. Coulson Osoikhia, has inaugurated the Healthcare Drug Revolving Fund Committee (DRF).
He reaffirmed Governor Monday Okpebholo’s unwavering commitment to strengthening primary healthcare in the state.
Dr. Osoikhia stated that one of the governor’s key priorities is to ensure the availability of essential medicines and consumables in all primary healthcare facilities at affordable costs to improve the quality of life for residents. While inaugurating the DRF Committee, he charged its members to develop a robust implementation plan and put mechanisms in place to guarantee the program's success and sustainability.
Pharmacist Eruaga Valentine, Director of Essential Drugs and Logistics, provided an overview of the DRF initiative, emphasizing the need for a steady supply of essential medicines and commodities at primary healthcare centres. He explained that the DRF would eliminate frequent stockouts through a revolving drug supply system and significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses for patients. He further noted that the committee would be instrumental in shaping the program’s framework, ensuring compliance, and conducting regular performance reviews.
Dr. Marvelson Obasogie, Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics, stressed the importance of digitalizing DRF operations for enhanced efficiency across the 18 local government areas of the state. He also recommended decentralizing drug stores based on senatorial districts to improve accessibility and coverage.
The members of the DRF Committee include Dr. Coulson Oahimire Osoikhia as Chairman and Mrs. Nosakhare Adole-Orokpo as Secretary. Other members are Pharmacist Eruaga Valentine, Pharmacist Edo Silvanus, Dr. Marvelson Obasogie, Dr. Idemudia Osayomore, Mr. Cosmas Okeigbemen, Mrs. Edith Idehen, Miss Nelly Odiakaose, Mrs. Osatohanmwen Ogbebor-Nwadialo, Mrs. Nene Olaye, Mr. Victor Obasuyi, Mrs. Faith Egharevba Uhunamure, and Miss MaryJane Timothy.