Training Pharmacists and Supply Chain Managers to Improve Access to Safe Abortion Services in Zambia
ZAGO’s Training Initiative Improves Access to Safe Abortion Care in Zambia
In a groundbreaking effort to address the barriers to safe abortion services in Zambia, the Zambia Association of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians (ZAGO) has successfully implemented a training program for pharmacists and supply chain managers on drug forecasting and quantification. Kachali Lambwe, Communications and Advocacy Officer of ZAGO, highlights how this initiative has helped mitigate shortages of medical abortion (MA) drugs, ensuring the availability of essential medications for patients in need.
The main factors restricting access to safe abortion services in Zambia are the lack of abortion drugs and the high costs associated with these services. Women and girls seeking medical abortion often struggle to access the necessary medications due to erratic supply in public health facilities, forcing them to purchase expensive drugs from private pharmacies. This financial burden makes safe abortion services inaccessible to many, leading some to resort to unsafe and potentially life-threatening methods.
Recognizing the urgent need to address these challenges, ZAGO decided to deliver specialized training to pharmacists and supply chain managers. A survey conducted as part of the Self-Management of Abortion (SMA) Project revealed that 87% of healthcare facilities had no medical abortion drugs in stock. By improving the skills of these key players in drug forecasting and quantification, ZAGO aimed to prevent shortages and disruptions in patient care, ultimately improving the availability and accessibility of MA drugs for women and girls in Zambia.
The training program has already shown promising results in improving access to safe abortion care. Pharmacies are now better equipped to stock MA drugs such as mifepristone and misoprostol, reducing the likelihood of shortages and making it easier for women to access the necessary medications. Pharmacists are also able to provide accurate information and guidance to patients, ensuring safe and effective use of the medications at home.
ZAGO’s unique role in coordinating this training with the Ministry of Health and the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) has been instrumental in tailoring drug forecasting and quantification to the specific needs of women and girls seeking safe abortion services. Moving forward, ZAGO plans to continue advocating for improved drug procurement and distribution systems to sustain the impact of this initiative.
The long-lasting impact of this training is expected to include improved patient outcomes, cost savings, enhanced patient care, and better medication management. By empowering pharmacists and supply chain managers with the necessary skills and knowledge, ZAGO is paving the way for a more accessible and efficient healthcare system in Zambia.
This training initiative, delivered as part of FIGO’s Self-Managed Medical Abortion care project, represents a significant step towards ensuring that women and girls in Zambia have access to safe and affordable abortion services.
