Editorial - The Vexed Question of the Supply of Essential but Affordable Medicines to Less Developed Countries and How Greater Equity May be Achieved

摘要

Expenditure on essential, life-saving medicines accounts for a major proportion of health costs in developing countries, with the attendant consequence that access to treatment is heavily dependent on the availability of affordable medicines. It is estimated that today more than a third of the world's population and more than one-half of the poorest in Asia and Africa still lack access to essential drugs. Put simply, the provision of access to medicines depends on four key factors: (1) rational selection and the use of medicines; (2) affordable prices; (3) sustainable financing; and (4) reliable health and supply systems.