The Ministry of Health (MoH) has dismissed reports of an antiretroviral (ARV) drug shortage in the country, reassuring the public that HIV medications remain readily available and free in all public and Private Not-For-Profit (PNFP) health facilities.
The clarification comes amid concerns sparked by media reports suggesting a potential disruption in ARV supplies due to an executive order from the United States government reassessing foreign aid. Dr. Charles Olaro, the acting Director General of Health Services, has firmly refuted these claims, calling them “untrue” and urging the media to avoid spreading unverified information.
ARVs Still Available Nationwide
In a statement dated March 20, Dr. Olaro emphasized that the National Medical Stores (NMS) and Joint Medical Stores (JMS) have consistently distributed ARVs to over 2,000 health facilities every two months.
“Over the past two years, there have been no reported stockouts of ARVs. ARVs remain available and free in all public and PNFP health facilities,” he stated.
He also highlighted Uganda’s progress in the HIV/AIDS response, with 1.4 million people currently on antiretroviral treatment and an impressive 89% viral suppression rate.
US Funding Concerns: What’s the Real Impact?
The reassurance comes against the backdrop of planned suspensions of critical funding from the United States to over 50 countries, including Uganda.
Among the affected initiatives is the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has supported HIV testing, prevention, and treatment services globally.
While the US decision has raised concerns about potential disruptions, Dr. Olaro assured Ugandans that ARV procurement remains stable.
“The Government of Uganda remains fully committed to ensuring a steady supply of high-quality, effective antiretroviral treatment,” he said.
Transition to Patient-Centered Care
Dr. Olaro also revealed that the MoH is transitioning to a patient-centered model of care, integrating services for HIV/AIDS, TB, Hepatitis B, hypertension, and diabetes into standard outpatient and chronic care services.
“This long-planned reform aims to improve service delivery and address inefficiencies in specialized health programs,” he explained.
Crackdown on Illegal ARV Sales
The Ministry’s statement also addressed allegations of illegal ARV sales in some healthcare facilities.
A recent viral social media post claimed that a patient at Ishaka Adventist Hospital was charged Shs70,000 per ARV tablet, sparking outrage and calls for intervention.
Dr. Olaro condemned such practices, reiterating that ARVs are free and warning facilities against exploiting patients.
“We urge the public to report any cases of illegal ARV sales to the authorities,” he said.
A Call for Responsible Journalism
Dr. Olaro urged media outlets to verify information before publishing, warning that misinformation could create unnecessary panic and hinder national HIV/AIDS response efforts.
“Misinformation on critical health matters can create unnecessary panic and hinder national HIV/AIDS response efforts. We urge responsible journalism that aligns with our shared goal of protecting public health,” he said.
The MoH’s reassurance is a welcome relief for the 1.4 million Ugandans relying on ARVs. However, the looming uncertainty around US funding underscores the need for sustainable local solutions to ensure uninterrupted access to life-saving medications.
For now, the message is clear: ARVs are available, free, and accessible to all who need them.
