Private clinics are selling drugs for government health service provision in Torit, Eastern Equatoria.
Deputy Chairperson of State committee of Health Semira Louis told Emmanuel Radio that many drugs with labels “The Republic of South Sudan” meant for public health were found on sale during an inspection to illegal clinics operating in Torit last week.She added that most private clinics are owned by high government officials.
Three clinics were closed down during the inspection due to unqualified health practitioners who could not produce legal documents to operate the facilities.
Patients at Torit State Hospital are sometimes forced to buy drugs from private stores due to shortage of medicines at the public facility.
The minister of health Sam Felix Makuja said the drugs shortage is due to the large population the state hospital serves.
He added that Eastern Equatoria State is exposed to common tropical diseases that require more drugs compared to other areas.
The minister discourages the local use of drugs and herbs, urging citizens to always seeks professional medical attention at the Hospital.