Strengthening Health Systems through Strategic Medical Re-Supply in the Balkans and Tanzania

Background:

Health systems endeavor to improve the quality of their products and services while facing enormous challenges such as conflict, aging facilities, and medical and financial shortages.  The Strategic Medical Re-Supply Program (SMRP) was created in the Balkans region to reduce costs for essential medicines and supplies and re-invest savings to strengthen health systems.

Methods:

Project HOPE brings together Ministries of Health (MOH), industry, medical institutions and civil society to address specific health problems through targeted donations of medicines and supplies.  Local medical institutions prioritize their needs and MOH issues product and materials requests.  Health facilities and patients receive products free-of-charge. Project HOPE arranges the donations and works with recipient institutions to bolster tracking systems, develop delivery plans and conduct stringent monitoring.  The program trains local pharmacists and physicians to increase their capacity in product utilization and monitoring. Partners regularly discuss outcomes, achievements and needed improvements.   

Results:

Expanded reach from 1 to 8 countries in 5 years. 500 health facilities participated with an established network of 80 facilities.  1.2 million patients benefited.  $70 million of medical products and supplies donated by 20 global pharmaceutical and medical device companies.  98% of product used effectively before expiration.  Over 80 pharmacists and physicians trained.  100% of savings invested into priority infrastructure improvements, health provider training and equipment renewals.

Conclusions:

SMRP provides high-quality medications and supplies that benefit patients and channel resources into sustainable health improvements.  This effective model can be replicated to strengthen other developing health systems.