Access to medicines - more than just affordability

Abstract

The provision of essential medicines forms one of the key health systems “building blocks”, as defined by the World Health Organization. Any consideration of access to medicines for children needs to go beyond the mere physical availability and affordability of such medicines. A patient-centred conceptualization of access to health care has emphasized five dimensions: approachability, acceptability, availability and accommodation, affordability and appropriateness. Accordingly, this chapter is concentrated on issues relevant to individuals, households and communities. It focuses on the resources building block of the health system, in relation to availability, accessibility, affordability, acceptability and quality of medicines for children. The impact of health financing, health information and human resources is also examined. Lastly, it considers the impact of market forces, innovation, transparency and donors’ agenda and funding on optimal access to medicines for children.