The Minister of Public Health in the caretaker government, Dr. Firas Al-Abed, presented the results of the MediTrack tracking system that the ministry is implementing for approximately 56 types of intravenous cancer medications in hospitals. Detailed and documented reports showed a significant improvement in the availability of these medications for patients, ranging between 80% and 100%. Additionally, oral medications available in pharmacies were secured at a rate between 70% and 80%.
During a press conference held at the Ministry of Health, Al-Abed announced the expansion of tracking by adding new types of medications and diseases to the MediTrack system, affirming that these steps are part of the national health strategy launched by the ministry, which aims for healthcare services that meet global quality standards while applying digitization to ensure transparency and optimal resource utilization.
The tracking process begins with the patient obtaining a Unique ID number as a prerequisite for receiving medication. To achieve this, the number of centers from which patients can obtain this ID has been increased to 15 centers across Lebanon. It is worth noting that registration in the program is the only way to obtain prior approval from the Ministry of Public Health to receive medication supported by the Ministry based on the protocols adopted there.
Al-Abed emphasized that the issue of medicine is a priority, especially considering the significant suffering faced by patients, particularly cancer patients. He pointed out that securing medication is challenged by limited funding, but the ministry has sought to utilize all available resources by implementing the MediTrack system for several cancer medications, which has proven effective in regulating the drug market, reducing smuggling and stockpiling, and ensuring that medicines reach deserving patients.
The Health Minister also announced that the ministry will launch a hotline (1214) on March 13 to report any violations in medication sales in pharmacies that do not comply with the officially updated daily prices through the user-friendly MedLeb application to know the actual price of the medication. The ministry and pharmaceutical inspection will take appropriate measures against violators, including closure. The hotline can also be used to inquire about how to obtain the Unique Health ID or register for the Aman system.
Regarding the dollarization of medication sales, Al-Abed argued that pharmacies would in this case turn into currency exchange centers, which is unacceptable for a profession that should maintain dignity. Therefore, the ministry intends to issue a daily index of medication prices as a solution to exchange rate fluctuations.
