In this article, we will present archival materials from 2023 related to the drug traceability system.
Kyrgyzstan has achieved significant progress in healthcare and pharmaceuticals through the implementation of an innovative drug tracking system. This approach stands out for its simplicity and flexibility. The Department of Medicines and Medical Devices under the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic shares the advantages and results of the successful implementation of this system.
Achievements and Plans
Since the launch of the system on March 4, 2023, a total of 758,272 packages (166 drug names) have been introduced into circulation, while 102,666 packages have been withdrawn from circulation (sold drugs).
The system allows tracking the movement of drugs from the moment they arrive until they are sold in pharmacies or used in medical institutions, with a total of 822 participants in the system (pharmacies, warehouses, medical organizations).
Now, a complete picture of the movement of medications and their availability in pharmacies, medical organizations, and warehouses is accessible.
Manufacturers evaluate the system positively, noting its simplicity. It accepts codes from any manufacturers, allowing the use of existing equipment and labeling processes.
A mobile application for citizens has also been developed and is in use, allowing them to check each package tracked in the system.
Every day, between 1,500 and 3,000 new packages are added to the system (the system has reached a stable operating mode for selected drugs). See the data filling chart (number of packages tracked in the system).
As of July 1, 2023, the second phase of implementing traceability for drugs from the list of the High Technology Fund began.
Plans include launching traceability for drugs from the essential medicines list starting November 1, 2023 (the third phase). This will increase both the number of system users (to approximately 3,000) and the number of tracked drugs (to about 1,800 names). Manufacturers will also begin to connect to the system. It is expected that the implementation of the third phase and market stabilization will take about 6 months. Starting March 1, 2024, all other drugs on the market will begin to be tracked, significantly increasing their number in the system.
Advantages of the System Being Implemented in Kyrgyzstan
The traceability system in Kyrgyzstan is characterized by simplicity and flexibility compared to similar systems in other countries. It imposes minimal requirements on market participants. Thanks to the simplification of processes (for example, support for any labeling code standards, no need for an electronic digital signature, availability of ready-made stickers, and others), the system was launched in a short time.
Another important aspect is that all processes regulating the pharmaceutical market occur within a unified system (the traceability system is a module of the Electronic Database of Medicines and Medical Devices), which simplifies integration and enhances control capabilities.
The system is under full national control, which is a significant advantage.
The use of only open technologies ensures the security and accessibility of the system for developers from Kyrgyzstan.
Moreover, participation in the system is free for all market participants.
Conclusion
The implementation of the drug traceability system in Kyrgyzstan has become an important step for the development of the pharmaceutical industry and the improvement of healthcare quality. The simplicity and flexibility of the system, along with active engagement with market participants and the population, have led to notable results. The prospects for further development promise even greater benefits for all participants in the healthcare system in Kyrgyzstan.
