People seeking prescription medicines may soon be able to avoid visiting multiple pharmacies, as the State Pharmaceuticals and Medical Supply Corporation (StatePharma) prepares to launch a nationwide digital portal that allows users to check medicine availability and prices via their mobile phones.

StatePharma announced that the new platform is set to go live in September, giving the public the ability to view stock levels across its pharmacy network and identify which outlets stock the medications they need before making a trip.

This initiative aims to address a common frustration among patients and caregivers in the Maldives—uncertainty about which pharmacies have specific medicines in stock—often forcing people to visit several outlets in search of essential prescriptions.

The portal will provide real-time information on the availability and pricing of medicines, allowing users to search from any location using their phones.

StatePharma described the project as part of a broader effort to enhance pharmaceutical services and tackle longstanding challenges in medicine supply through digital solutions and improved planning.

Managing Director Dr. Shah Mahir stated that the company is focused on developing sustainable, long-term solutions rather than quick fixes. He emphasized that ensuring a consistent medicine supply begins with accurately forecasting the country’s pharmaceutical needs.

While sourcing medicines remains challenging, he noted that significant improvements can only be achieved by predicting demand in advance and planning procurement accordingly.

As part of this strategy, StatePharma has completed the initial phase of implementing an Enterprise Resource Management (ERM) system alongside an e-logistics platform, which will help monitor medicine stocks across the country more efficiently.

According to Dr. Shah, the new digital infrastructure will offer a clearer picture of the types and quantities of medicines needed nationwide each year. This data is expected to improve procurement planning, ensuring the import of sufficient, quality medicines before shortages occur.

He added that improved forecasting will also support long-term storage and distribution strategies, allowing medicines to be strategically positioned across islands and reducing supply disruptions.

Medicine shortages and delays have been ongoing concerns for patients in the Maldives, affecting access to certain treatments. Health authorities have been working to strengthen procurement processes and supply chain management to ensure continuous access to essential medicines.

StatePharma stated that the upcoming portal is just one of several measures aimed at modernizing the country’s pharmaceutical services, increasing transparency for patients, and making it easier for the public to access medicines when needed.