Batting HIV/Aids: A Decisionv Maker’s Guide to the Procurement of Medicines and Related Supplies

Battling HIV/AIDS sets out principles and provides advice on the procurement of HIV/AIDS medicines and related supplies for programs scaling up antiretroviral therapy (ART) and associated health services. This technical guide examines the elements required to establish and ensure continuity of supplies, including medicines and other commodities. It provides extensive guidance on key topics: Quality Assurance, Selection & Quantification methods, Intellectual Property Rights, Procurement Strategies, Pricing & Financing, the Supply Cycle and Policy Issues. Specializing in procurement for HIV-related programs, Battling HIV/AIDS is a valuable resource for implementing agencies and donors dealing with HIV/AIDS related procurement ＂This highly welcome, new guide from The World Bank provides a wealth of practical advice for countries on the procurement of HIV medicines and diagnostics, including how to deal with the intellectual property issues faced by procurement agencies. It is an important tool that will help countries to take advantage of the flexibilities built into international trade agreements and to maximize treatment access for their populations.＂ Peter Piot, Executive Director, UNAIDS ＂As an early advocate for HIV/AIDS treatment, I believe this important new work coming from the World Bank resolves a critical missing link: step by step guidance to developing country policymakers, medical practitioners, NGOs, people living with AIDS, and others who are trying to accelerate access to HIV/AIDS medicines and medical supplies.＂ James D.Wolfensohn, President, The World Bank