Kyrgyzstanis offer their properties for state pharmacies
Kyrgyzstanis Offering Premises for State Pharmacies, Head of Kyrgyzfarmatsiya Says
Concerned citizens in Kyrgyzstan are stepping up to offer their premises for state pharmacies, according to Zamirbek Akaev, head of El Aman branch of Kyrgyzfarmatsiya state enterprise. Akaev told 24.kg news agency that the population has been submitting numerous applications, requests, and even demands for the opening of state pharmacies in various locations.
The goal, Akaev stated, is to cover all regions of the republic and nearly all primary and secondary healthcare organizations. However, economic feasibility poses a limiting factor, particularly in remote and sparsely populated areas. The cost of logistics and the need to constantly replenish the assortment of medicines in such areas can lead to low demand and insufficient profits to cover operational expenses, including employee salaries.
Akaev explained that the enterprise sets a minimum profit margin, with pricing focused on covering sales tax, salaries, and other operating expenses. He also acknowledged the support of local entrepreneurs who provide medicines at prices below wholesale, noting that 11 local companies are currently partnering with El Aman.
Despite challenges, Akaev highlighted the possibility of entering into contracts directly with drug manufacturers, with the first cargo expected from Russia in the near future. Approval processes are also underway with companies from Pakistan and Turkey.
Akaev emphasized that healthcare organizations are not being forced to open state pharmacies, but instead, many are expressing interest in hosting them. At least 55 state pharmacies have already been opened throughout the republic, with active citizen involvement in offering premises and land plots for new pharmacies.
