Dinçyürek: “Medicine Stocks Full, Crisis Perception Unfounded”

Dinçyürek confirmed that over 1,200 types of medicines are currently available in the country. He acknowledged that a few specific drugs are temporarily out of stock but stressed that alternatives or different dosages are readily accessible. “Some doses of Concerta will arrive in the warehouse this week. Other doses are already available,” he added, emphasizing that reports of shortages are exaggerated.

Responding to procurement criticisms, Dinçyürek said, “We conducted our tenders on time and purchased medicines with a budget exceeding 2 billion TL. Currently, 1,200 types of medicines are available in warehouses and hospitals.” He reassured that public health remains secure and noted that new supply channels are being explored.

Dinçyürek also cited global economic factors affecting imports via Turkey, explaining that temporary supply disruptions are linked to anticipated price increases there. “Some Turkish suppliers are not responding to new orders due to expected price hikes. This does not affect our central warehouse. Our stocks are sufficient,” he said, adding that fixed exchange rates put pressure on Turkish producers, contributing to broader supply chain challenges.

Addressing criticism over local production, Dinçyürek highlighted initiatives to revive domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing. “We reopened local production, initiated licensing, inspections, and incentives. Restarting a previously inactive facility takes time; it is unrealistic to expect immediate results,” he said.

Dinçyürek also outlined ongoing investments in health infrastructure, including new hospitals, health centers, a state laboratory, and a Pharmaceutical Department building. “An 80 million TL tender has been completed and is awaiting Competition Board approval. New MR, ultrasound, and Doppler devices are being procured,” he stated.

Concluding, Dinçyürek accused some critics of creating a politically driven crisis narrative. “While there are gaps, the situation is far from catastrophic. Certain groups ignore the improvements in healthcare to generate a crisis atmosphere, but the public knows the truth,” he said.