E-DRUG: Training, capacity building for ARV procurement & supply management
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear E-druggers,
Availability of funds to procure ARVs, diagnostics, and medicines for opportunistic infections does not necessarily guarantee access and availability of these items. Without well-prepared procurement and supply management systems and adequately trained human resources, ART programmes are unlikely to become successful.
A training course on procurement and supply management in ART programmes has been piloted in South Africa in the period 7-18 February 2005. The course targeted ARV programme managers, physicians, pharmacists, health systems managers, procurement and distribution managers. The course was organised by IDA Solutions, an independent offspring of IDA Supplies in The Netherlands, and active in providing technical assistance in procurement and supply management issues in developing countries.
Because of the pilot nature, only twelve participants from 7 African countries and 1 from an NIS country participated. Representatives from donor organisations such as WHO, UNICEF, Clinton Foundation, and UNFPA were also present. Key topics in ART procurement and supply management were covered, including 1) ART product selection and treatment protocols, 2) determining product needs, 3) quality issues, 4) procurement planning and execution, 5) distribution planning and execution, and 6) correct use of ARVs and other HIV/AIDS related medicines. Time was also devoted to a number of ART related subjects, such as management of opportunistic infections, addressing human resource problems, and monitoring and evaluation of procurement and supply management. The course had a highly interactive style, with group discussions and practical exercises. Experienced trainers and resource persons exposed participants to a large number of practical examples from a variety of countries in the world. A visit was made to an innovative ART approach in a township. This visit helped participants to understand the context of course contents and different ways of achieving high coverage.
The course modules were evaluated by participants and trainers immediately after the sessions, and results are being processed at the moment. However, a first review of the evaluation forms indicated that the course contents very well accommodated the needs and expectations of the participants. Good suggestions were received for subjects that need more attention. Changes to be made in the next update of the course include improvement of the flow of the course and strengthening of some individual modules.
The next course is planned to be offered within the next two to three months. A website containing registration details is being under construction at the moment. More detailed information on this website and registration for the course will posted in E-drug in due course.
In the mean time, information on the course can be obtained from:
Clarisse Morris M.A.
Technical Officer
IDA Solutions
E-mail: camorris@ida.nl
Tel: (+31)-20-4037185 (direct line)
Fax: (+31)-20-4031854
P.O. Box 37098, 1030 AB Amsterdam
The Netherlands
www.ida.nl
regards
Hilbrand
Hilbrand Haak
Consultants for Health and Development
------------------------------------------------------------------
Sleedoorntuin 7 tel: +31-71-523.2052
2317 MV Leiden fax: +31-71-523.3592
The Netherlands e-mail: haakh@chd-consultants.nl
Visit CHD's website at www.chd-consultants.nl