Ankara, February 25 – Turkish Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu visited Selçuk Ecza Deposu in Ankara to conduct on-site inspections of the pharmaceutical warehouse’s operations. The visit focused on understanding the intricacies of the drug supply chain, from manufacturing to patient delivery, and assessing the effectiveness of the ‘Drug Tracking System’.
Minister Memişoğlu Reviews Supply Chain and Logistics
Minister Memişoğlu’s visit to Selçuk Ecza Deposu involved a comprehensive review of the facility’s various departments. Key areas of inspection included the company’s supply processes, storage facilities, and overall logistics infrastructure. The Minister emphasized the importance of a robust and efficient supply chain to ensure timely access to medicines for all citizens.
During the inspection, Minister Memişoğlu received detailed briefings on the ‘Drug Tracking System’ (İlaç Takip Sistemi). This system is designed to monitor and track medicines through all stages, from their production to their ultimate delivery to patients. The Minister evaluated the system’s operational effectiveness in the field, highlighting its crucial role in ensuring transparency and preventing counterfeit drugs.
Minister Expresses Gratitude for Hospitality
Following the visit, Minister Memişoğlu shared details of his inspection on his social media account. In his post, he stated, “We visited Selçuk Ecza Deposu and conducted on-site inspections of their supply processes, storage areas, and logistics infrastructure. During the visit, we received information about the ‘Drug Tracking System’ applications, which enable the monitoring of all stages of medicines from production to patient, and evaluated the system’s operation in the field.”
He further extended his gratitude, saying, “I thank Mr. Mustafa Sonay Gürgen and the entire Selçuk Ecza Deposu family for their kind hospitality.” The Minister’s remarks underscored the collaborative effort between the Ministry of Health and key stakeholders in the pharmaceutical industry to enhance public health services.
The Importance of the Drug Tracking System
The ‘Drug Tracking System’ is a critical component of Turkey’s healthcare infrastructure. Its implementation aims to ensure the authenticity and safety of pharmaceutical products by providing a comprehensive, end-to-end tracking mechanism. This system helps combat the illicit trade of medicines, ensures proper storage conditions, and facilitates rapid recalls if necessary, thereby safeguarding public health.
The Minister’s inspection reaffirms the government’s commitment to continuously monitor and improve the pharmaceutical supply chain. The visit to a major pharmaceutical warehouse like Selçuk Ecza Deposu provides valuable insights into the practical challenges and successes of managing such a complex system.
Future Implications for Pharmaceutical Logistics
The findings from this inspection are expected to contribute to ongoing efforts to optimize pharmaceutical logistics across Turkey. By directly engaging with industry leaders and observing operational procedures, the Ministry of Health can identify areas for improvement and implement policies that further strengthen the national drug supply network. This proactive approach is vital for maintaining a resilient and responsive healthcare system, especially in light of evolving public health needs.
The visit also highlights the strategic importance of pharmaceutical warehouses in the broader healthcare ecosystem. These facilities are not merely storage units but critical hubs that ensure the continuous flow of essential medicines to hospitals, pharmacies, and ultimately, to patients. The efficiency and reliability of these depots directly impact the accessibility and quality of healthcare services nationwide.
Source: Anadolu Agency
