The Social Security Fund (CSS) of Panama reported the arrival of new batches of medications for patients with chronic diseases to ensure a constant supply in its health facilities. Among the received products are high-demand drugs such as amlodipine 5 mg, irbesartan 300 mg, iron in ampoules, and hyaluronic acid, used in various medical treatments and chronic therapies. The institution acknowledged that the sporadic supply shortages recorded in previous months were due to non-compliance by suppliers. However, the CSS also recognized the existence of internal thefts of medications, which directly affects the availability of essential drugs like amlodipine and irbesartan, used to treat blood pressure. In some cases, according to the director, supplies were diverted within the institutional network, which contributed to the shortage and caused delays in patient care. To strengthen control and transparency, the CSS implemented the Medication and Supply Logistics Administration System (SALMI), a technological tool that allows for real-time inventory monitoring, reduces loss risks, and optimizes the distribution of medications throughout the public health network. As part of its strategy to ensure supply sustainability, the CSS awarded 282 lines of medication for approximately 77.9 million dollars, as well as 47 lines of biological medications for 72.6 million dollars. A few weeks ago, the director of the CSS, Dino Mon, admitted that the institution is facing supply problems this year, attributable to irregularities within the distribution system itself. Mon explained that as of the end of December, the CSS had a 96% supply level, thanks to purchases exceeding 124 million dollars.
