Bopolu, Gbarpolu County — In preparation for the official launch of the Revolving Drug Fund (RDF)/Community Pharmacy Scheme in Gbarpolu County, the RDF/Community Pharmacy Program has successfully conducted a one-day Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop for key healthcare stakeholders in the county.
The workshop was held at the Emirates Hospital and aimed to equip healthcare managers with the skills necessary for the effective implementation of cost-sharing initiatives at secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities.
The training focused on managerial best practices, financial accountability, and sustainability of the cost-sharing model under the RDF system.
It brought together more than 72 stakeholders, including nurses, midwives, laboratory technicians, pharmacists, accountants, physician assistants, hospital administrators, logistic officers, local authorities, and the County Health Officer.
Delivering the opening remarks, Dr. Raphael O. Shamavu, coordinator of the RDF/Community Pharmacy, emphasized the importance of the RDF in enhancing healthcare delivery nationwide. He urged participants to take ownership of the initiative to ensure its sustainability.
“We have three presentations today to give you a clear understanding of how the RDF and cost-sharing components work. The system allows drugs to be sold at minimal cost, with proceeds used to replenish the stock. Its sustainability hinges on proper financial management and community oversight,” Dr. Shamavu said. “I urge everyone to treat this as a new baby, nurture it, help it grow, and work to prevent stock-outs in Gbarpolu County.”
Also speaking, Gbarpolu County Health Officer, Dr. Kezelebah S. Goyah, welcomed the reintroduction of the RDF, calling it a critical step in revitalizing the county’s healthcare system.
“This initiative is not entirely new. It existed before the civil war but was disrupted due to the conflict and subsequent economic hardship. With international partners scaling out their support, it’s time for us to take ownership,” Dr. Goyah stated. “The RDF will help ensure a steady supply of essential drugs, and we must all work together to make it successful.”
The RDF/Community Pharmacy Scheme is a cost-recovery mechanism designed to ensure the availability of essential medicines at health facilities through community engagement and transparent financial practices.
