E-drug: Contents of the Remed Journal, nr 25
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In the year 2001, prices of antiretrovirals drugs have decreased a
lot. Mobilisation of international institutions and national
organisations, pressure of associations and patients have
contributed to this proces. Constitution of a health-aids global fund,
when finalized, would allow for considering treatment of many
patients in southern countries.
ReMeD, in association with the International Therapeutic Solidarity
Fund (FSTI), wants to contribute to the distribution of information.
The start of a programme of access to antiretrovirals is being
implemented or in progress in most countries. We have proposed to
show the first results in various african countries. As you will see,
articles showed in this issue of Remed Journal are diverse, concrete
and fruitful. They show us the stakes and the difficulties. From the
articles it appears that, the decrease of the price of antiretrovirals is
not sufficient to implement a real program.
Training of all stakeholders is required, and also a solid team
approach, in particular with patient associations. At the same time,
we need a competent and fully equiped technical platform with a
good management. Supply and distribution of drugs and
consumables have to be organised to be permanent and reliable.
Efforts and research are necessary, particularly in treatment
evaluation and follow-up, drugs quality control and especially in the
observance.
Beyond this special issue, evolution of programme of access to
antiretrovirals will be discussed from time to time by ReMeD. All the
articles of this issue were received, read and approved between
June and September 2001.