Essential medicines

Essential medicines are those drugs considered to be of utmost importance in a health system, ensuring that the population has access to the most effective, safe, and cost-efficient medications needed for a basic healthcare system. The concept of essential medicines is central to global health initiatives, aiming to promote fair access to necessary drugs regardless of socioeconomic status.

The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a pivotal role in defining and updating the list of essential medicines. This list is used by countries to guide the development of their own national policies on drug provision and to ensure that healthcare systems focus on the availability of these critical medicines.

Definition and Importance

Essential medicines are defined by the WHO as those that "satisfy the priority health care needs of the population". They are selected with regard to disease prevalence, evidence on efficacy and safety, and comparative cost-effectiveness. Essential medicines are intended to be available within the context of functioning health systems at all times, in adequate amounts, in the appropriate dosage forms, with assured quality and adequate information, and at a price the individual and the community can afford.

The importance of essential medicines lies in their ability to improve health outcomes and promote health equity. By focusing on a limited range of medicines, healthcare systems can improve the availability of important treatments, reduce costs through bulk purchasing, and improve the quality of care.

Selection Criteria

The selection of essential medicines is based on: - The public health relevance of the diseases they treat - Evidence of efficacy and safety from clinical trials - Comparative cost-effectiveness

The WHO Model List of Essential Medicines

The WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, first published in 1977 and updated every two years, serves as a guide for the development of national and institutional essential medicine lists. It includes medicines for pain and palliative care, antipyretics, antiallergics, antidiabetics, antineoplastic and immunosuppressives, antiparasitic drugs, and vaccines, among others.

Challenges and Controversies

While the concept of essential medicines is widely supported, its implementation faces challenges. These include the availability of medicines, affordability, and the quality of drugs. Additionally, the selection process can be influenced by political and commercial interests, leading to controversies over the inclusion or exclusion of certain medicines.

Global Impact

The essential medicines concept has had a significant impact on global health, leading to improved access to important medications in low- and middle-income countries. It has also influenced international policies and funding priorities, focusing attention on the need for equitable access to healthcare.

Conclusion

Essential medicines are a cornerstone of effective healthcare systems, ensuring that all individuals have access to the most important treatments. The WHO's role in defining and updating the list of essential medicines is crucial in promoting health equity and improving global health outcomes.