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Variation in the availability and cost of essential medicines for non-communicable diseases in Uganda: A descriptive time series analysis

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  • Mari Armstrong-Hough
  • Srish Sharma
  • Sandeep P Kishore
  • Ann R Akiteng
  • Jeremy I Schwartz

Abstract

Background: Availability of essential medicines for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is poor in low- and middle-income countries. Availability and cost are conventionally assessed using cross-sectional data. However, these characteristics may vary over time. Methods: We carried out a prospective, descriptive analysis of the availability and cost of essential medicines in 23 Ugandan health facilities over a five-week period. We surveyed facility pharmacies in-person up to five times, recording availability and cost of 19 essential medicines for NCDs and four essential medicines for communicable diseases. Results: Availability of medicines varied substantially over time, especially among public facilities. Among private-for-profit facilities, the cost of the same medicine varied from week to week. Private-not-for-profit facilities experienced less dramatic fluctuations in price. Conclusions: We conclude that there is a need for standardized, continuous monitoring to better characterize the availability and cost of essential medicines, understand demand for these medicines, and reduce uncertainty for patients.

Suggested Citation

  • Mari Armstrong-Hough & Srish Sharma & Sandeep P Kishore & Ann R Akiteng & Jeremy I Schwartz, 2020. "Variation in the availability and cost of essential medicines for non-communicable diseases in Uganda: A descriptive time series analysis," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 15(12), pages 1-8, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0241555
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241555
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