Being an Act to repeal and replace the National Pharmaceutical Procurement Unit Act, 2012 to establish the National Medical Supplies Agency as a public service agency responsible for the procurement, warehousing and distribution of drugs and medical supplies in a transparent and cost-effective manner for and on behalf of all public institutions throughout Sierra Leone. Repeals the National Pharmaceutical Procurement Unit Act, 2012.
Here are the key points summarized from “The National Medical Supplies Agency Act, 2017”: Title and Purpose: The act repeals and replaces the National Pharmaceutical Procurement Unit Act, 2012, establishing the National Medical Supplies Agency. Its objective is to oversee the procurement, warehousing, and distribution of drugs and medical supplies transparently and cost-effectively for all public institutions in Sierra Leone. Definitions: “Agency” refers to the National Medical Supplies Agency established under the act. “Board” denotes the governing body of the Agency. “Chairman” is the head of the Board. “Managing Director” is the head of the Agency. “Medical supplies” encompass various materials and products necessary for delivering healthcare services. Establishment of the National Medical Supplies Agency: The Agency is established as a body corporate with perpetual succession and the capacity to acquire, hold, and dispose of property. It can sue and be sued in its corporate name and perform all acts that bodies corporate may legally undertake. Board of the Agency: The governing body of the Agency is the Board, responsible for its control and supervision. The Board comprises a Chairman, government officials, representatives from professional bodies, and members recommended by the Minister. Criteria for Board membership include expertise in relevant fields, integrity, and absence of certain criminal convictions. The Chairman and Board members serve for a term of three years, with eligibility for reappointment for an additional three-year term. Gender diversity is considered in Board appointments. Term of Office and Cessation of Membership: Board members serve a term of three years, with the possibility of reappointment for another three years. Membership on the Board ceases due to specific grounds outlined in the act. These points encapsulate the essential provisions of the act, delineating the structure and functions of the National Medical Supplies Agency.
