Oncology patients in BiH often forced to procure expensive medicines themselves

(Patria) - Oncology patients without therapy, the Clinical Center in Sarajevo lacks 11 cytostatics, cytostatics have not arrived at the University Clinical Center, these are pieces of information that have become increasingly common in the public in recent years. All of this leads to therapy interruptions and life endangerment.

Two years ago, during routine examinations, Nedžad Gavranović was diagnosed with colon cancer. After that, a strenuous battle for treatment ensued.

Unfortunately, as soon as I started with the therapies, fortunately, I was informed in time that they did not have the main drug used for my chemotherapy in stock, and that I was obliged to procure it myself - Gavranović states for BHRT.

After he managed to procure that drug, a new notification arrived.

During the second chemotherapy, besides that Fluorouracil, they told me that I had to procure another drug that they also don't have and won't have for the next month or so - he said.

Since personal procurement of medicines from Serbia takes longer, chemotherapy sessions are also postponed. Gavranović needs to receive the so-called "smart drug" which costs around 1,600 KM.

In addition to the fact that two months ago the Council submitted a request for approval of that drug, I still have not received approval. And when I get it, if I get it, it will be my obligation to procure it. I am not sure if I will be able to afford it financially, because I was supposed to receive four doses by now, and I haven't received a single one yet - states Gavranović.

Although patients have the right to reimbursement of costs, that too is on a longer waiting list.

The Institute says that, if it is not necessary to conduct an examination procedure, the competent authority is obliged to issue a Decision as soon as possible.

Gavranović has been waiting for the first reimbursement for more than a month and a half, and after that, he procured four more medicines. He adds that, in addition to the fight for treatment, patients also face inadequate conditions in the hospital.