GUWAHATI: The Assam government has decided to implement a WhatsApp-based helpline to address the ongoing issue of medicine shortages in government hospitals. This was recently revealed by State Health Minister Ashok Singhal while visiting Sribhumi Civil Hospital.
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The initiative, set to roll out on February 15, has been taken to ensure patients receive prescribed medicines without difficulty and to curb irregularities in drug distribution.
Reports of shortages have long plagued Assam’s healthcare system, with many patients being forced to purchase medicines from private pharmacies despite government provisions for free essential drugs.
To address this, the WhatsApp complaint system will allow patients to report instances where prescribed medicines are unavailable at hospital pharmacies. Complaints will be monitored in real time, enabling swift administrative action.
Additionally, the state government has warned of strict action against doctors found deliberately altering medicine names, causing inconvenience for patients. Officials believe this step will enhance transparency and ensure better access to essential drugs.
