THE Department of Public Health and Medical Services under the Ministry of Health has announced that the cost of medicines purchased from outside pharmacies is being reimbursed when civil servants receiving treatment at public hospitals have to buy medicines externally.
Under this programme, starting from February, a Government Staff Priority Corner has been designated for civil servants in 67 hospitals under the Department of Medical Services of Yangon Region. At these designated wards, patients receive free treatment with medicines and diagnostic tests funded by the government. If medicines have to be purchased from outside sources, the cost is reimbursed under the budget head (W0316).
Similarly, civil servants are also provided with free medical treatment at public hospitals where no special priority wards have been designated. If medicines must be purchased externally, the cost of the medicines will likewise be reimbursed.
A responsible official from the Department of Public Health and Medical Services under the Ministry of Health explained, “Most of the medicines we have are essential medicines purchased with state funds, and these are provided free of charge. Occasionally, when additional medicines have to be purchased, there is already a designated budget heading for that purpose, and reimbursement is made through that allocation. In Yangon Region, the service has become more visible because a separate ‘corner’ has been established. Even where there is no separate corner, the main point is the service. Patients can receive our healthcare services with reduced financial burden. Since they are civil servants, they are given priority consideration. At present, the patient may need to pay for the medicines first and then apply for reimbursement, which will be processed in accordance with financial regulations.”
It is also learnt that when medicines are purchased externally, reimbursement can be claimed by submitting the pharmacy receipt. If the cost is below K500,000, approval is reviewed and decided by the State and Regional Health Directors. If the cost is K500,000 or above, the claim is reviewed and approved by the head office, in accordance with financial procedures. — ASH/KNN
