|
|
 |
Abstract
Unimaginable costs: the rational expansion of the capitalization of global access to rapid diagnostic testing
By: R. Rubenstein1, D. Grosky2, D. Miller3, R. Keller4, J. Gibbs3
Issues: (1) How can government and diagnostic test manufacturers work together to facilitate a robust and effective procurement process making available essential diagnostic and therapeutic tools? (2) Why does there continue to be a very small percentage of HIV-infected individuals tested worldwide contributing to a lack of effective treatment, growing infection rates, and increased morbidity and mortality? (3) Why is there a lack of formal guidance for diagnostic test manufacturers regarding the facilitation of procurement methodologies by both industry and public health funding sources, significantly retarding the predictable and expected utilization of rapid tests in resource poor settings further inhibiting effective access to these essential public health commodities?
Description: Meetings with PEPFAR, The Global Fund and other public health authorities along with USAID and supply chain management systems (SCMS) participants and interviews with leading public health authorities.
Lessons learned: Industry production capacity is not being realized. This consequence is a direct result of continued commuication voids that exist between government and diagnostic manufacturers regarding effective and practical procurement considerations of essential diagnostic products. Peer review publications of the cost/benefit analysis of VCT supports the expoential increase in newly identified cases which provides invaluable epidemiological data critical to the appropriate delivery of prevention programming, treatment and care and subsequent designs in incidence of infection.
Recommendations: (1)The establishment of specific programs/seminars by government interfacing directly with industry members advocating logistical and practical consideration for the efficient facilitation of procurement. (2) The publication of a governmental "white paper" clearly articulating specific steps to effective procurement methodologies and ready access strategies for all who most need access to essential diagnostic and therapeutic technologies worldwide. (3) A close review and, where appropriate, a reduction in tarriffs imposed on the importation of rapid HIV tests which tarriffs currently often stymie the procurement process. (4) Further infastructure support is essential for the sustainable execution of VCT.
|
|
|
|