The Chairman of the Administrative Oversight Authority, Abdullah Qadirbuh, held an expanded meeting with the Minister of Finance of the National Unity Government and the head of the Medical Supply Authority, to discuss the annual financial reports of the Authority.
According to what the authority’s official Facebook page reported, “The meeting was attended by the Minister of Finance of the National Unity Government, the head of the Medical Supply Service, the Director of the Budget Department, some directors of public departments and offices, and the head and members of the oversight committee accompanying the performance of the Authority’s Medical Supply Service.”
During the meeting, the financial data disclosed in the Authority’s fifty-third annual report for 2023 and the discrepancies discovered by the Authority regarding them were discussed, and their causes were determined by forming oversight work committees, and showing the results of their work in the Authority’s fifty-fourth annual report for 2024, in addition to the results of the ongoing investigations by the Authority regarding the same. The subject, and the Ministry’s commitment to refer all The data required in particular: In implementation of the provisions of Law Establishing the Authority No. (20) of 2013 AD, its amendments, and its executive regulations.”
The meeting also dealt with “the file of importing and providing medicines and medical and operational supplies to hospitals and public medical centers by the Medical Supply Authority.” And to find out the reasons for the delay in importing it, and the resulting cessation of treatment for Libyan patients and others inside, and the exacerbation of their health crises.”
The Chairman of the Authority stressed “the necessity of resolving all problems and obstacles that would obstruct the Agency in implementing its mandates entrusted to it, and tightening the accompanying oversight work on all contracts concluded and intended to be concluded by the Authority with supplying companies, as well as their payments referred for audit and review by the Authority.” To ensure that all financial amounts allocated to the agency are disbursed in accordance with the aspects allocated to them, and that medicines are imported in accordance with applicable medical specifications locally and internationally, and not to be negligent in granting permission to contract or disburse except according to the procedural requirements and medical and technical specifications specified by the law; To prevent any attacks or harm to public funds and the health of citizens.”
The meeting also witnessed a review of the file of judicial rulings issued against the Libyan state at home and abroad and their financial amounts, and work to inventory all local rulings and allocate financial amounts to be paid in the general estimated budget for 2025 AD. To prevent its accumulation, and to close it according to the regulating legal procedures; Service to the public interest.
Last updated: November 11, 2024 – 12:24
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Expert on Financial Oversight in Healthcare
Time.news Editor: Welcome to our special segment on healthcare finance management. Today, we’re discussing a critical meeting recently held by the Chairman of the Administrative Oversight Authority, Abdullah Qadirbuh, along with key figures from Libya’s National Unity Government. Joining me is Dr. Sarah Nuri, an expert in public health policy and financial oversight. Thank you for being with us, Dr. Nuri.
Dr. Sarah Nuri: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: The meeting was focused on the annual financial reports of the Authority, particularly addressing discrepancies in the 2023 report. How significant are these financial reports in terms of healthcare management?
Dr. Nuri: Financial reports are crucial for transparency and accountability in healthcare management. They provide insight into how funds are allocated and utilized. Discrepancies can indicate mismanagement or inefficiencies that could directly affect patient care and resource availability. It’s vital that such issues are addressed promptly to maintain trust and efficacy in the healthcare system.
Editor: During the meeting, there was mention of forming oversight committees to investigate discrepancies further. Can you elaborate on the importance of such committees?
Dr. Nuri: Absolutely. Oversight committees play a pivotal role in safeguarding public resources. By having independent bodies review financial activities, we can ensure that procurement processes for medical supplies and services are not only transparent but also aligned with the public’s best interest. Their findings can serve as a basis for enabling improvements and preventing future issues.
Editor: The meeting also touched on delays in importing medicines and medical supplies, leading to treatment interruptions for patients. This is a serious concern. In your opinion, what steps should be taken to resolve these import issues?
Dr. Nuri: First, it’s essential to identify the root causes of these delays. Are they logistical, bureaucratic, or perhaps related to funding? Once identified, a streamlined process should be established to facilitate timely imports. This could involve better collaboration with suppliers and potentially overhauling existing contracts to ensure accountability and efficiency.
Editor: The Chairman mentioned the necessity of tightening oversight on contracts with supply companies. How can this oversight be effectively implemented?
Dr. Nuri: Effective oversight can be achieved through systematic auditing and regular reporting. Each contract should have clear deliverables and timelines, with penalties for non-compliance. Additionally, there should be a transparent mechanism for public reporting on how funds are spent, so stakeholders can hold responsible parties accountable.
Editor: How do you see the role of the Ministry of Finance in this context?
Dr. Nuri: The Ministry of Finance is crucial as it oversees the financial health of government operations. Their commitment to provide necessary data and support investigations into discrepancies is essential for ensuring that the healthcare sector receives adequate funding and resources. Their financial management policies can either promote or hinder healthcare reforms and accountability.
Editor: Dr. Nuri, what do you hope will be the outcome of such meetings and investigations for Libyan healthcare?
Dr. Nuri: I hope to see a paradigm shift towards enhanced accountability and systematic reforms that prioritize patient care. By addressing financial discrepancies and inefficiencies head-on, Libya can improve its healthcare system, ensuring that resources are maximized for the benefit of its citizens. It’s not just about financial reports; it’s about delivering quality healthcare to those who need it most.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Nuri, for your insights on these critical issues. It’s clear that financial oversight and transparency are fundamental to improving healthcare systems, especially in times of crisis. We appreciate your time and expertise.
Dr. Nuri: Thank you for having me. It’s important we continue these discussions for the betterment of health services in Libya.