"They’re to Blame Themselves!" — Ivanovo Region Minister Blames Cancer Patients for Medication Shortages

Anton Arsenyev, the Health Minister of the Ivanovo region, reported that the shortage of subsidized medications for cancer and diabetes patients is due to patients stockpiling these drugs. He noted that this behavior results in shortages and insufficient supply for other patients, as reported by NewsBox.

The head of the Ivanovo Regional Health Department, Anton Arsenyev, addressed the complaints from local residents regarding the lack of essential subsidized medications, including insulin, metformin, and anti-cancer drugs.

The official stated that one of the reasons for the shortage is the behavior of patients who try to stock up on medications in advance.

Sometimes patients wish to keep extra supplies of medications. Although prescriptions are given for three months, they come back every month. Unfortunately, some of our physician colleagues issue monthly prescriptions. Yet, few understand that if you take extra for yourself, others might end up with nothing," Arsenyev explained in an interview with Ivanovo News.

He also shared that a departmental meeting with healthcare leaders has been held to bolster control over medication distribution.

All our eligible patients receive their medications without exception. We make purchases daily, everything should be fine. We aim to prevent such situations in the future," Arsenyev remarked.