Government pharmaceutical organization sues Moderna profit allegations

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The government pharmaceutical organization is suing the chairman of the Thonburi Healthcare Group and a mathematician, both of whom have criticized his purchase of the Moderna vaccine. The Bangkok Post reports that the GPO has filed complaints with the police against THG Chairman Boon Vanasin and mathematician Loy Chunpongthong.

The two men alleged that the GPO profited from the purchase of doses of Moderna, a claim denied by the state agency. A statement released by the GPO says it has filed defamation charges against Boon and Loy at Phaya Thai police station in Bangkok.

Boon made his claim against the GPO while expressing his frustration with the time it took to import the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine. The health services group, Zuelling Pharma, has sole authority to import the manufacturer’s vaccine. Boon accused the GPO of making substantial profits by being the middleman between private hospitals and Zuelling Pharma. He also criticized the government for its over-reliance on Sinovac and AstraZeneca vaccines, while ignoring the more effective mRNA vaccines.

GPO’s Vitoon Danwiboon hit back at criticism of the slow procurement process for Moderna, insisting he couldn’t sign the contract without upfront payment from the Private Hospitals Association.

Meanwhile, mathematician Loy took to You Tube to accuse the GPO of taking advantage of Moderna’s orders. Loy alleges that the state agency pocketed 444 baht for each dose ordered by private hospitals. Loy also hit private hospitals, accusing them of overcharging Moderna. He says that of the 1,650 baht charged per dose, 622 baht is for hospital costs.

In response to the GPO’s lawsuit, Boon and Loy said they welcome the move, as Moderna’s supply contract will need to be made public if the case goes to court.

SOURCE: Bangkok Post

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