Ministry of Public Health addresses procurement of pharmacy robots in hospitals following transparency concerns
It has become a topic of interest online after a well-known Facebook page raised concerns regarding the procurement of pharmacy robots by several state hospitals, alleging that specifications were rigged to favor certain private companies. The projects in question range in value from 10 to 60 million baht per facility.
The Director of Chainat Narenthorn Hospital has come forward to explain the necessity of purchasing such technology, stating that the hospital needed to improve its operational systems to increase efficiency. Since the medication dispensing process is a major bottleneck that causes long wait times for patients, the introduction of robots aims to reduce errors and accelerate service speed.
However, questions regarding transparency in the procurement process remain under public scrutiny, particularly regarding selection criteria that are perceived as potentially limiting competition. Relevant agencies must urgently investigate the facts to provide clarity and reassure the public that the use of state funds is cost-effective and in compliance with regulations.
At present, the Ministry of Public Health has not issued an official statement regarding the alleged rigging of specifications. However, it is expected that oversight agencies will be involved in reviewing the procurement procedures of the hospitals mentioned to ensure that government operations remain transparent and accountable in accordance with the principles of good governance.