Linking Drug Registers with Essential Medicines Lists
Author Information
Author(s): Petra Brhlikova, Zaheer-Ud-Din Babar, Allyson M Pollock
Primary Institution: Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University
Hypothesis
How can linking drug registers with essential medicines lists improve access to essential medicines?
Conclusion
Linking drug registers with essential medicines lists can help identify gaps in the registration of essential medicines and improve their availability.
Supporting Evidence
- Access to essential medicines is crucial for public health and sustainable development.
- Many essential medicines are not registered in low- and middle-income countries, leading to unavailability.
- Linking drug registration with essential medicines lists can help prioritize the registration of essential medicines.
Takeaway
This study says that we need to connect lists of important medicines with the records of what medicines are allowed in each country so that everyone can get the medicines they need.
Methodology
The study involved analyzing the registration status of essential medicines in various countries and proposing a linkage system between drug registers and essential medicines lists.
Potential Biases
The reliance on manufacturers to apply for registration may lead to a focus on profitability rather than public health needs.
Limitations
Many low- and middle-income countries do not have digitized drug registers yet, which complicates data linkage.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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