Overview of Medicines Use, Prescription, and Public Health Challenges in Afghanistan
Keywords: Supply, Health challenges, Herat, Essential medicines, solutions.
Nuhzatullah Sapi
Abstract
This academic research examines use of medicines, prescribing practices, and public health challenges in Afghanistan. The main objective is to analyze the structure of the medicine market, the prescription system, and the major barriers affecting access to quality healthcare. The study is based on evidence collected and synthesized from peer reviewed articles, international health reports, and organization documents. Findings indicate that use of medicines in Afghanistan is often unregulated, nonstandard, and largely driven by market demand rather than patients’ actual medical needs. Prescription activities frequently lack professional oversight and depart from standard medical principles, contributing to misuse of medicines, surge of antimicrobial resistant diseases, and significant financial burdens on patients. The study also highlights broader public health challenges, including the shortage of free healthcare services, limited professional capacity among medical staff, poor medicine quality, and low levels of public health awareness. It recommends establishing a national standardized prescription system, strengthening public awareness programs, promoting coordination between government and private sector, and ensuring adherence to international health standards. This research serves as a scientific reference for policymakers, researchers, and health professionals aiming to improve Afghanistan’s public health system.
