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Comprehensive & Cost Effective Laboratory Monitoring of HIV/AIDS: an African Role Model
Published on: October 31, 2010
The Accelerating Access Initiative: experience with a multinational workplace programme in Africa.
S Van der Borght1, V Janssens, M F Schim van der Loeff
1Heineken International Health Affairs, Amsterdam, Netherlands. Stefaan.vanderBorght@heineken.com
Bulletin of the World Health Organization
|October 31, 2009
Summary
The Accelerating Access Initiative (AAI) enabled a multinational company to provide discounted antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) to employees in Africa, despite logistical and policy challenges. Streamlining access and removing taxes are crucial for broader private sector engagement in HIV/AIDS care.
Area of Science:
- Global Health
- Pharmaceutical Access
- HIV/AIDS Management
Background:
- A multinational company aimed to provide antiretroviral treatment to employees and dependents across African operations.
- Private sector employers in Africa face challenges with the price and availability of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) for HIV/AIDS care.
- The Accelerating Access Initiative (AAI) offered ARVs at a significantly reduced cost through a partnership of pharmaceutical companies and UN agencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the implementation of a workplace HIV/AIDS treatment program for a multinational corporation in Africa.
- To assess the impact of the Accelerating Access Initiative (AAI) on drug accessibility for private sector employees.
- To identify barriers and facilitators for providing antiretroviral treatment in an African corporate setting.
Main Methods:
- A workplace program was established in September 2001, supported by PharmAccess for HIV policy and treatment guidelines.
- The Accelerating Access Initiative (AAI) provided brand antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) at 10% of the commercial price.
- Implementation involved navigating complex importation procedures, contracts, and government policies.
Main Results:
- The AAI facilitated access to discounted ARVs for the multinational company's employees and their dependents.
- Significant hurdles were encountered, including complex importation, taxes on ARVs, and logistical support issues.
- Pharmaceutical company and government policies created barriers to accessing AAI-discounted drugs.
Conclusions:
- The AAI successfully enabled the company to offer antiretroviral treatment, highlighting the potential for private sector involvement.
- Recommendations include establishing local AAI offices for logistical support and advocating for tax exemptions on ARVs.
- Ensuring private sector access to discounted ARVs is vital for expanding HIV/AIDS treatment initiatives in Africa.
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