Lessons from the Kaduna sustainable drug supply intervention initiative

ABSTRACT

Background: The Sustainable Drug Supply System (SDSS) is a strategy for ensuring uninterrupted drug supply for sustained and affordable health care delivery in all health care institutions in some States in Nigeria. Drug distribution network in Nigeria is in a state of chaos because it consists of multitude of illegal markets, patent medicine stores, pharmacies, private and public hospitals, wholesalers/importers and pharmaceutical manufacturers operating in an uncoordinated manner.Objectives: To examine the distribution channels of the Kaduna State SDSS; evaluate it within the framework provided in the Nigerian Drug Distribution Guidelines (NDDG) and assess the challenges militating against the scheme.Methods: The study was a cross sectional survey of stakeholders managing the scheme and patients patronizing the health care facilities using semi ­ structured questionnaires. Data obtained were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.Results: The result of the study indicated that the Kaduna State SDSS distribution channels are consistent with the provisions of the NDDG. Drug availability in facilities was widely reported to have improved following the SDSS intervention; however 41.2% of the respondent believed the drugs are expensive.Conclusion: If the provisions of the Kaduna State SDSS are properly implemented and enforced, the model is capable of addressing the uncoordinated drug distribution system and curbing the supply chain vulnerability to infiltration by unauthorized and corrupt participants in the state