A disruption in HIV medication access is impacting patients in Barranquilla, Colombia, as a shortage of essential drugs threatens ongoing treatment for those living wiht the virus. The delays, beginning in late December, stem from issues with health insurance providers delivering medications already available from manufacturers [[2]].This situation underscores broader concerns about pharmaceutical supply chain vulnerabilities in Colombia, even as the government maintains there is no widespread drug shortage [[3]], and follows recent moves to improve access to affordable HIV treatment across the region [[1]].
A critical shortage of essential medications is threatening the health and well-being of people living with HIV in Barranquilla, Colombia, according to a local advocacy group. The disruption in treatment access, which began approximately two weeks ago, highlights the fragility of healthcare supply chains and the potential consequences for vulnerable populations.
Fundación Arenosa Vive Fundarvi, a Barranquilla-based organization with 24 years of experience defending the rights of individuals with HIV, has raised the alarm about the situation. While the medications are reportedly available from pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors, some health insurance providers (EPS) are failing to deliver them to patients in a timely manner, the group says.
“Appointments scheduled for the end of the year for patients in the Virrey Solís IPS HIV program in Barranquilla began being canceled abruptly without justifiable reason,” explained Heriberto Mejía, director of Fundarvi. “These cancellations impact patients who are monitored monthly – a crucial component of comprehensive care for this chronic, treatable condition, which requires ongoing monitoring and medication delivery.”
As a result of the delays, patients are increasingly reliant on donations from foundations and social organizations to obtain their medications. However, the high cost of antiretroviral treatments – ranging from 800,000 to 900,000 pesos per vial – places a significant strain on these resources.
Mejía has issued an urgent appeal to the Superintendencia de Salud and the EPS providers to ensure the prompt delivery of medications to those who need them. Consistent access to antiretroviral therapy is vital for managing HIV and preventing the development of drug resistance, underscoring the importance of a reliable medication supply.
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