The Ecuadorian government is implementing centralized purchasing for medicines, having signed 242 contracts worth $31 million so far to ensure national supply.
The Ecuadorian National Government has announced advancements in the centralized procurement of medicines as part of its compliance with Executive Decree No. 108. This decree focuses on the centralization of the purchasing processes for medications and medical devices in order to ensure a steady national supply. Currently, the Ministry of Public Health is prioritizing the acquisition of medications, managing a total of 654 types through various contracting procedures.
As a part of the ongoing plan, a total of 242 contracts have been signed, amounting to $31 million, with deliveries being made to a centralized warehouse. The centralized procurement aims not only to streamline the purchasing process but also to improve availability and reduce costs associated with the acquisition of medical supplies. In the future phases, there will also be efforts to procure 321 items of general and commonly used medical devices.
The purchasing mechanisms employed in this initiative include electronic catalogs, centralized purchasing, electronic reverse auctions, and centralized bids for strategic goods. By providing transparent information about these processes, the government aims to build trust and enhance accountability in public health procurement efforts.
