In 1999, World Health Organization led an initiative to develop a global immunization assessment tool, to be used to examine the financing, supply and delivery of immunization programs in developing countries. This global tool, created with input from several non-profit and development organizations, is to be used as the framework for preparing an application for funding new vaccines. The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunizations (GAVI), the umbrella organization that unites organizations involved with immunization work, has established a more than $750 million global fund to enable developing countries to apply for funding to provide Hepatitis B and Haemophilus Influenza (Hib) vaccines. In February 2000, a team pilot tested the global assessment tool in Tanzania. This presentation examines the application of the immunization financing part of the tool, which was developed and refined during the pilot test. The methodology takes into account the information needs of multiple stakeholders as well as the often-limited availability of information in developing countries. The immunization financing assessment focused on: sources and uses of funds for the Tanzanian immunization program; cost-effectiveness of the program’s components and strategy; financial needs to maintain, expand, and improve the program; and areas where cost-savings could be realized. The information generated by the financing assessment can be used as input into the design of five-year action plans. The financing assessment and plan shows how and at what cost inequalities of access to immunizations may be reduced, new vaccines and technologies may be introduced, and the immunization infrastructure maintained and renewed.
Learning Objectives: 1. Identify the elements and application of an immunization financing assessment protocol for country-level analyses. 2. Assess how the protocol can be used to enhance the planning, financing and sustainability of country immunization programs. 3. Discuss the lessons learned and findings from using the protocol in Tanzania
Keywords: Immunizations, Assessments
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Abt Associates Inc
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.