Coronavirus impact: Ailing UAE expats run out of cheaper medicines from India

Abu Dhabi - The extension of lockdown in India till May 17 meant ailing expats may have to wait longer for follow-up treatments.

With current travel restrictions, expats who rely solely on cheaper medicines and treatment back in India are facing problems. The extension of lockdown in India till May 17 meant ailing expats may have to wait longer for follow-up treatments and deliveries of cheaper medicines to the UAE.
Ouseph J, who is suffering from a gastrointestinal stromal tumour, underwent a surgery in India five years ago and has been taking Imatinib 400mg since then. Most of the time, his travelling friends and colleagues will bring a pack of medicines for him.
Ouseph's own travel plans for a follow-up treatment in March got cancelled with the suspension of flights.
A pack of 30 Imatinib tablets that costs less than Rs6,000 (Dh290) in India is sold for Dh14,000 in the UAE.
Even with insurance coverage, Ouseph still needs to pay more than Dh4,000, which is way above his salary.
"I was supposed to fly by end of March. I had medicine stocks till April 15. Now, I have missed tablets for more than two weeks. I can't afford it here. This is Dh14,000 here, whereas it's available for Rs5,000 (Dh242) in India. Also I don't have a local prescription," the 40-year-old said.
When this reporter checked with pharmacies, the medicine was unavailable or had substitutes of similar rates, which Ouseph can't afford.
"I am now dependent on courier service. I hope there are no issues in customs clearance. My insurance card status also hampers follow-up check-ups to be done here."
Hoping for a solution
Ummer Rahiman has been on medication for a year after his angioplasty, which was done at a hospital in Sharjah. A few months ago, he was told by his insurance company that his medication can no longer be covered.
He used to get medicines from India till March but that option is now temporarily unavailable.
"My medicine for two months cost Rs1,500 (Dh73) in India and the same brand here will make you poorer by Dh1,300. Without insurance cover, I can't purchase my medicine here and there is a lockdown back in India," the 52-year-old said.
"I am visiting my doctor here for a follow-up check next week. I hope there will be solution soon."
'Things are getting serious for me'
Abbas Ali is surviving on a single kidney, with the other removed 10 years ago. He also has a serious medical condition.
"I have a nephrostomy. It's uncommon. I was operated on in India. Things were fine so far. But now, my follow-up treatment is affected. My sugar and creatinine levels have shot up. I am in a tight spot and need help," Ali said.
He added that he has been to two hospitals in the country and was provided medicines.
"Due to Covid-19 situation, I am told to stay in my room. I am unwell and can't cook. I have to follow a certain diet. I wish to return to India. Things are getting serious for me with each passing day," Ali said.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com