Uganda’s Drug System: What Will It Take to Fix It?
What: Three noted experts on pharmaceutical drugs examined the challenges faced by Uganda’s system for supplying and regulating the flow of prescription medicine – and what is needed to repair it.
Who:
Dr. Mshilla Maghanga, pharmacist and lecturer, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Gulu University Faculty of Medicine: What is wrong with Uganda’s system for supplying medicinal drugs?
Dr. Myer Lugemwa, former General Secretary, Uganda Medical Association: How do patient attitudes, behaviour and knowledge (or lack thereof) contribute to Uganda’s drug problem?
Dr. Byomire, Executive Secretary, National Drug Authority: What is the government doing to fix the pharmaceutical drug system, and what role must other stakeholders – including the media – play?
Why: Almost every week, new reports come in showing that Uganda has trouble getting the right medicines to the right people at the right time. We hear constantly about shortages of needed medicines, yet we also hear about large amounts of drugs expiring before they are distributed? We also hear all-too-often that unqualified people are dispensing drugs. Worse yet, we hear that many Ugandans either medicate themselves without expert guidance; and even when they do have medical advice, they often fail to follow it. The results – failed treatment, increased sickness, and the constant threat of drug-resistant diseases – take a huge toll on our health. Our panel will discuss how Uganda can resolve these problems, focusing particularly on the role of professional communicators.
When: Wednesday, August 27, 2008, 8:30 a.m. to noon.
Where: Makerere University Department of Gender and Women’s Studies, First Floor Conference Room (Pool Road, opposite the swimming pool)
We hope to see you there!
