[india-drug] Re: affordability of medicines (5)

["MIRA DESAI" <desaimirak@yahoo.co.in>]

affordability of medicines (5)
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Dear members,

  Yes, I agree with Dr Joseph and Dr Kotwani.Infact one of the critical factors that lack access to essential drugs to save lives and improve the health of millions of people in rural and low income group is affordable prices of medicines. Payment for drugs through general government and social health insurance is preferred. But how many people in developing countries like India are able to take advantage of such scheme? 90% of the drugs are paid 'out of pocket', i.e., from the  household expenditure! What should be done? Can we  reduce the manufacters' prices by reducing import duties, taxes, distribution cost etc which will  reduce the final consumer prices. Secondly, by adopting 'generic- friendly' policies may  result into market competition which will greatly increase the affordability of drugs.

 Dr Mira Desai
 Professor,
 B.J.Medical College,
 Ahmedabad.
MIRA DESAI <desaimirak@yahoo.co.in>
    

 				
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