The Health Services Managers Network (HESNET) has called on the government to increase the drug budget allocation for the country’s hospitals from 10 percent to 50 percent.

HESNET Chairperson, Dr. Henry Chibowa, made this appeal during the network’s annual conference held in Blantyre.

Speaking to YFM, Dr. Chibowa highlighted the network’s heavy reliance on the Central Medical Stores for their drug supplies. He emphasized that when the institution faces shortages, it directly impacts the provision of quality healthcare services.

In response, Deputy Minister of Health Noah Chimpeni acknowledged the concerns raised by HESNET and assured that the government would carefully consider the request.