To address the issue of shortage of medicines in civic-run hospitals, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has proposed to print barcodes on them. This will help curb illegal sale of medicines outside the hospital premises.

mid-day, in a series of articles, has highlighted how several civic-run hospitals are facing acute shortage of medicines. Recently, a supplier was black listed for his failure to provide medicines within a stipulated time period. In fact, former assistant commissioner of health, Dr Idzes Kundan had held an inquiry into the matter. However, despite this, the shortage is becoming a hurdle in the treatment of patients. Their relatives are being asked to buy medicines from outside.