An audit of the drug buying system in Solomon Islands has been ordered by the prime minister due to chronic drug shortages at hospitals and clinics across the country.
Rick Hou Photo: RNZ/Pacific Koroi Hawkins
According to the Solomon Star newspaper Rick Hou revealed this on Wednesday in a meeting with civil society group Forum Solomon Islands International.
Mr Hou said the audit will look at the entire drug procurement system and try to find the root cause of the shortages.
He said he purposefully chose an audit over a commission of inquiry because he believes it will be faster.
The prime minister said everyone, directly or indirectly, involved in the procurement process will be investigated
Rick Hou said the audit team is expected to deliver a set of recommendations on actions that need to be taken to address the situation.
The Solomon Star reports relief supplies of life saving drugs were received from Australia, New Zealand and the World Health Organization on Monday.
The executive of the country's main National Referral Hospital says essential drugs stocks are expected to be back to normal by September.