3 Major Hospitals Face Critical Shortages of Life-Saving Calcium Carbonate Medication

Mauritian dialysis patients have raised the alarm over a nationwide shortage of calcium carbonate, forcing many to purchase the life-saving treatment from private pharmacies at significant personal expense.

The stockout has been reported across several major public institutions, including Victoria Hospital, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam National Hospital, and Dr A. G. Jeetoo Hospital.

Health officials have attributed the crisis to maritime logistics delays but insist that new supplies are expected to arrive within the week.

Financial Strain on Vulnerable Patients

The shortage, which has reportedly persisted for over a month at some facilities, is placing an immense financial burden on those suffering from chronic kidney disease.

One patient treated at the “Hospital of the North” revealed she requires eight doses daily. With hospital shelves empty, she has been forced to turn to the private sector, where a single tube of the medication lasts only three days.

“If I can still afford to buy it, that is not necessarily the case for everyone,” she warned, highlighting the plight of lower-income patients who rely entirely on the state for their daily healthcare needs.

A Vital Medical Necessity

Calcium carbonate is a cornerstone of treatment for dialysis patients, who cannot naturally regulate mineral levels.

It is essential for protecting bone health, which is frequently compromised by renal failure.

Bose Soonarane, Secretary of the Renal Disease Patients’ Association, noted that some patients require up to ten tablets a day to maintain a biological balance.

He further noted that even private pharmacies are beginning to face supply difficulties.

Calls for Greater Oversight

In response to the crisis, the Renal Disease Patients’ Association is calling for more rigorous stock management to prevent future shortages of essential medicines.

Mr Soonarane suggested that the government should collaborate with the private sector to bridge supply gaps during periods of “stock tension.”

The association intends to escalate the matter in an upcoming meeting with the Minister of Health, Anil Bachoo.

Government Response

The Ministry of Health has acknowledged the reported shortages in specific hospitals. Officials maintain that the disruption is temporary and caused by international shipping delays.

While the Ministry has offered reassurances that the situation will be resolved shortly, patients remain in a state of anxiety as they await the promised delivery of new stocks.

Source: l’Express