As the supply of medical products such as IV solution packaging and syringes has become unstable due to the Middle East war, the government decided to closely manage the situation. It will also run a reporting center to prevent hoarding.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare said on the 6th that it held a second meeting with health and medical organizations in Jung District, Seoul, and agreed on a joint declaration to stabilize the supply of medical products. Twelve health care organizations, including the Korean Medical Association Organization, the Korean Hospital Association, and the Korean Pharmaceutical Association, as well as the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the Ministery of Food and Drug Safety, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources, and the Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service (HIRA) attended the meeting.
The Ministery of Food and Drug Safety and the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MOTI) will inspect the supply of raw materials and production for six medical products, including IV solution packaging, IV sets, eye drop packaging, syringes, needles, and hemodialysis solution containers. The Ministry of Health and Welfare will look into on-site conditions at hospitals and pharmacies.
To prevent hoarding, HIRA will operate a reporting center and promote self-regulation by each organization. If violations occur, the government plans to carry out administrative guidance and other measures.
Treatment materials will have their National Health Insurance reimbursement rates raised to reflect the recent rise in exchange rates. Minister Jung Eun-kyeong of the Ministry of Health and Welfare said, "We will keep a close watch on the situation and respond quickly to ensure there are no problems with the supply of medical products."