The Ministry of Health has rejected claims that Ghana has run out of antiretroviral medicines (ARVs), assuring persons living with HIV that the essential medicines remain available at designated health facilities across the country.

The Ministry’s response follows concerns raised by the Network of Persons Living with HIV in Ghana (NAP+ Ghana), which reportedly alleged that shortages had forced some health facilities to ration ARVs to patients.

In a statement, the Ministry described the claims as inaccurate, stressing that ARVs were available at designated health facilities to support the treatment and care of persons living with HIV.

It said it was also in the process of restocking medical commodities at the Medical Stores to ensure continued availability and distribution of essential medicines.

Ministry rejects claims of expired medicines

The Ministry also rejected suggestions that ARVs and other antiretroviral commodities currently at the country’s ports had expired.

It described the claim as “incorrect” and said it was working with relevant stakeholders to ensure the effective management and timely clearance of medical commodities.

According to the Ministry, the processes were intended to prevent disruptions in the supply of essential medicines and ensure that commodities reached health facilities in a timely manner.

Open-door policy

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to engaging stakeholders to address concerns surrounding the availability and distribution of ARVs.

It said it had already engaged NAP+ Ghana and assured the organisation of its open-door policy in dealing with concerns raised by persons living with HIV and other stakeholders.

The Ministry said its priority remained ensuring that persons living with HIV had uninterrupted access to the medicines and healthcare services required for their treatment and care.

It urged stakeholders to continue engaging with the Ministry to address concerns through dialogue and the appropriate channels, while efforts continued to strengthen the supply and distribution of medical commodities nationwide.