Medicines and health technologies
Medicines are essential for the prevention and treatment of diseases, and thus also for the protection of public health. They are also responsible for a substantial part of health care costs. In a number of countries in transition in the WHO European Region, ensuring regular access to good-quality, safe and affordable medicines is still a challenge: a one-month treatment of simple hypertension, for example, can cost up to 35 days' wages, most of which is paid out of pocket.
Health technologies include medicines, medical devices, assistive technologies, techniques and procedures developed to solve health problems and improve the quality of life. Such technologies are used in all types of health facilities, play a major role in contemporary health care systems and contribute directly to the quality of patient care. However, their use needs to be complemented by good staff training and effective organization of health services where application is sought.
WHO/Europe supports countries in their development of policies and guidance for responsible selection and use of medicines and medical products. Work is performed throughout the WHO European Region, networking with countries and providing them direct technical assistance and support. The focus is on supporting Member States to improve access to quality, affordable essential medicines and their responsible use.
The activities and projects of the health technologies and medicines programme at WHO/Europe include regular meetings on pharmaceutical policies with health ministries and social health insurance authorities; and policy dialogues with partners including the European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies, the European Commission, and professional and technical associations. Support is provided to countries on a number of subject matters.
Specific networks have also been created including:
- a network on antimicrobial medicines consumption monitoring in non-European Union countries
- the Pharmaceutical Pricing and Reimbursement Information (PPRI) network
- a network for responsible prescribing and use of medicines.
