Department of Essential Drugs and Medicines

Department of Essential Drugs and Medicines (also known as DEDM) is a global health organization that focuses on the accessibility, affordability, and quality of essential drugs and medicines. The department is committed to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status, have access to the essential drugs and medicines they need for their health and well-being.

History

The concept of essential drugs was first introduced by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1977. The idea was to identify a list of minimum medicine needs for a basic health care system, listing the most efficacious, safe, and cost-effective medicines. The Department of Essential Drugs and Medicines was established to oversee this initiative and ensure its implementation globally.

Function

The primary function of the DEDM is to maintain and update the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, which serves as a guide for countries to create their own national essential medicine lists. The department also works to improve the rational use of medicines, promote affordable prices, and encourage research and development of essential drugs.

Impact

The work of the DEDM has had a significant impact on global health. By promoting the use of essential drugs, the department has helped to improve access to life-saving medicines in low and middle-income countries. It has also played a crucial role in promoting generic drugs, which are typically more affordable than their brand-name counterparts.

Challenges

Despite its successes, the DEDM faces several challenges. These include the rising cost of new medicines, the lack of access to essential drugs in many parts of the world, and the overuse and misuse of medicines.

See also

• World Health Organization
• Essential medicines
• Generic drugs