Health Reporter
A shocking investigation has uncovered a syndicate of suspected drug agents with ties to hospital staff at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare, Zimbabwe.
These agents are accused of exploiting vulnerable patients, prescribing alternative medical sundries not available in-house, and referring patients to private pharmacies where they are forced to pay exorbitant United States dollar prices.
“The hospital pharmacy does not have the medication I have been prescribed,” said Ms. Anna Runyararo, a concerned relative.
“I am worried because I have never found the necessary medication at this pharmacy. The Government needs to investigate this issue, as we often hear that NatPharm has received a consignment of medication. Where are the drugs going if we can’t find them here?”
Patients are also being asked to bring basic essentials like water, highlighting the hospital’s crippling shortages.
“We are often asked to bring water from home because the hospital claims it does not have enough,” said Mr. David Madzivanzira.
“When you can’t get the prescribed medication, you typically consult a nurse, who then refers you to their preferred pharmacies. This creates a vicious cycle where patients are taken advantage of due to the lack of available medication.”
Allegations of Corruption and Exploitation
- Rogue drug agents and hospital staff collaborating to exploit patients
- Prescription of alternative medical sundries not available in-house
- Patients referred to private pharmacies with exorbitant prices
- Basic essentials like water in short supply
- Suspicions of medication diversion to the black market
Victims Speak Out
Ms. Sharon Mutetwa from Mhondoro shared her heartbreaking experience:
“My mother was in a coma and could not move, speak, or swallow, but we were still prescribed numerous medications. We spent over US$300, only to find the drugs unused every time we visited.” She suspects the prescription was a ploy to rob them of their money.
Calls for Investigation and Action
A doctor, speaking anonymously, implored the Government to intervene:
“There is usually no water at the hospital. But there are 19 boreholes around the hospital. Mothers usually use containers to get water which is an administration problem. Some of the problems are quite fixable.”
Sally Mugabe Hospital Chief Medical Officer Mr. Hopewell Mungani acknowledged the allegations, stating:
“I cannot deny these allegations because this is a big institution. However, as a journalist, I encourage you to be patient and partner with our security team. We’ll collaborate to address this issue.”
Government Urged to Act
The public is calling on authorities to:
- Investigate Sally Mugabe Central Hospital
- Improve service delivery
- Stamp out corruption
- Ensure availability of medical supplies
- Address water shortages
The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) and law enforcement agencies are being urged to collaborate with the hospital to address these allegations and restore sanity to the healthcare system.
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