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Country Situation
The concept of Essential Medicine is the basis for the
medical supply system in Sri
Lanka for many years. WHO’s
Model of Essential Medicines List (EML) was introduced in 1977. Even before this initiative Sri Lanka had
taken action to secure access to essential medicines making it a pioneer
country in this field. In spite of
these initiatives over time, problems have been encountered with regard to
aspects such as equal access, quality etc.
To overcome this situation a National Medicinal Drug Policy was
developed facilitated by the WHO Country Office and it was approved by the
Cabinet in 2005.
Strategy and target
The main objectives of the NMDP are;
 To ensure the availability and affordability
of efficacious, safe and good quality medicines relevant to the health care
needs of the people in a sustainable and equitable manner.
To promote the rational use of medicines by
healthcare professionals and consumers.
To promote local manufacture of essential
medicines
The main elements included in the NMDP are as follows:
1. Selection
of essential medicines
2. Affordability
and equitable access
3. Financing
options
4. Supply
systems and donations
5. Regulation
and quality assurance
6. Quality
use of medicines
7. Research
8. Human
resources
9. Viable
local pharmaceutical industry
10. Monitoring
and evaluation
Establishment of a National Medicinal Drug Regulatory
Authority (NMDRA) for regulation and quality assurance of medicines was
identified as a priority. This was
supported initially by the WHO with the technical assistance of a consultant
having a wide experience in working at the Therapeutics Goods Administration,
Australia. Legislation required for the establishment
of the proposed NMDRA
is being drafted at present by the Legal Draftsman’s Department.
Publications:
WHO supported the following publications in relation to
Essential Medicines:
National Essential Medicines List 2009
Sri Lanka Drug Index 2009 (compilation of all
drugs registered in Sri
Lanka
Analysis of the pharmaceuticals issued by the
Medical Supplies Division of the Ministry of Health over a period of five
years (2002-2006)
Sri Lanka Patients’ Formulary
Manual on Management of Drugs
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