Measures to Ensure Supply Chain Resilience for Over-the-counter Medication in Retail Pharmacies

NOTICE PAPER NO. 1314
NOTICE OF QUESTION FOR WRITTEN ANSWER
FOR THE SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON 12 SEPTEMBER 2022

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament
Dr Tan Wu Meng
MP for Jurong GRC

Question No. 2058

To ask the Minister for Health (a) what measures are in place to ensure supply chain resilience for over-the-counter medication to treat fever, cough and cold in retail pharmacies; and (b) whether the reported supply shortages at some retailers have affected the implementation of current policy on encouraging persons with COVID-19 with mild symptoms to self-isolate and recover at home.

Answer

The Ministry of Health maintains a stockpile of medication to treat fever, cough and cold from multiple countries and suppliers. These supplies can be released to retailers in the event of a widespread shortage.

When COVID-19 cases were high, there had been shortages reported for specific brands of these medications at certain retail outlets. These shortages are temporary, as retailers are bringing in additional supplies. Alternative brands remain available for these medications.