In this material, we examine archival data from 2023 regarding the implementation of the drug traceability system.
Kyrgyzstan has achieved outstanding results in healthcare and pharmaceuticals thanks to new drug tracking technologies. The uniqueness of this approach lies in its simplicity and adaptability. In the article, the Department of Medicines and Medical Devices of the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic shares the advantages and outcomes of the successful implementation of the system.
Achievements and Future
Since the launch of the system on March 4, 2023, a total of 758,272 packages (166 names) have been put into circulation, while 102,666 packages have been withdrawn from circulation (these are sold medicines).
The system tracks the paths of medicines—from the moment they enter circulation to the moment they are sold in pharmacies or used in medical institutions. A total of 822 entities (pharmacies, warehouses, medical organizations) are participating in the system.
Thanks to the system, there is now a clear understanding of the movement of drugs and their availability in warehouses, pharmacies, and medical institutions.
Manufacturers have responded positively to the new system, noting its simplicity. It supports codes from any manufacturers, which is convenient for those who are already using existing labeling equipment and processes.
A mobile application for citizens has also been developed, allowing them to check each package in the system.
On average, the system registers between 1,500 and 3,000 new packages per day, indicating stable operation for the selected drugs. Please refer to the data filling schedule (number of packages in the system).
Since July 1, 2023, the second phase of the implementation of the traceability system for drugs from the list of the High Technology Fund has begun.
In the future, it is planned to launch traceability for drugs from the list of essential medicines starting November 1, 2023 (the third phase). This will significantly increase both the number of system users (up to approximately 3,000) and the number of traceable names (up to 1,800). Additionally, manufacturers will begin to connect to the system. It is expected that the implementation of the third phase and market stabilization will take about six months. From March 1, 2024, traceability will cover all remaining medicines on the market, which will also increase the number of drugs in the system.
Advantages of the Kyrgyz System
Compared to the systems of other countries, Kyrgyzstan's system stands out for its simplicity and flexibility. The requirements for market participants are minimal. Thanks to simplifications, such as support for various labeling code standards, the abandonment of electronic digital signatures, the ability to obtain ready-made stickers, and the absence of aggregation requirements, the system was implemented in such a short time.
Moreover, all processes regulating the pharmaceutical market occur within a unified system (the traceability system is one of the modules of the Electronic Database of Medicines and Medical Devices), which significantly facilitates integration and enhances control capabilities.
Another important advantage is that the system is under full national control.
Only open technologies are used, ensuring both security and accessibility for developers in Kyrgyzstan.
Furthermore, the use of the system is free for all market participants.
Conclusion
The successful implementation of the drug traceability system in Kyrgyzstan has become an important step in the development of the pharmaceutical sector and the improvement of healthcare quality. The simplicity and flexibility of the system, along with active efforts to engage market participants and the population, have led to significant successes. The prospects for further development of the system promise even more advantages for all healthcare participants in the country.
