World Health Organization Maldives, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health is celebrating the successful launch of the new ‘National Medicine Policy’ (NMP) for 2024-2030. This policy is a testament to the country's dedication to providing equitable healthcare and addressing inefficiencies in the pharmaceutical sector. The initiative follows the successful implementation of the National Medicine Policy 2018-2023 and seeks to build on the significant achievements made over the past five years. The policy was officially launched on 13th February 2024.
The Maldives has achieved remarkable success in providing universal access to essential medicines, a goal that aligns with WHO's global mission and the Ministry of Health’s objectives. However, this success has come at a considerable financial cost, threatening the sustainability of Aasandha. Between 2014 and 2019, Aasandha’s expenditure on medicines grew by an unsustainable 18% annually. With WHO’s support, the Ministry of Health identified key inefficiencies, including unnecessary expenditure on medicines, high procurement prices, and variations in treatment protocols, which were undermining the system’s efficiency.
The journey towards the development of the National Medicine Policy 2024-2030 began in September 2023 when the Maldives Food and Drug Authority sought WHO’s technical assistance to evaluate the implementation of the previous National Medicine Policy (2018-2023) and assist in crafting a new policy. This request marked the start of a robust collaboration that would drive substantial improvements in the nation's pharmaceutical sector.
Throughout 2023, WHO provided essential support to Ministry of Health including comprehensive technical reports on critical components such as medicine pricing, the functioning of the Maldives Food and Drug Authority, and strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance. An international expert who recruited by WHO worked closely with national stakeholders and conducted field visits to small atoll facilities and engaged with key entities including Aasandha and the Ministry of Finance. The consultant's thorough analysis and detailed report laid the groundwork for a revised draft National Medicine Policy. This extensive consultation process culminated in a detailed report that formed the basis for the revised draft of the National Medicine Policy.
In December 2023, the draft policy was disseminated to over 350 stakeholders, inviting extensive review and feedback. This inclusive approach ensured that the second draft, prepared in January 2024, reflected a broad spectrum of insights. Further refinements were made in February 2024 following detailed discussions with the Ministry of Health, Aasandha, senior prescribers, pharmacists, wholesalers, and the Maldives Pharmacists Association (MPA).
The National Medicine Policy 2024-2030 addresses key challenges in the healthcare system. This policy:
- Advocates for the creation of evidence-based Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs) for selecting and updating the National List of Essential Medicines (EML).
- Aims to streamline STO procurement and limit Aasandha reimbursements to essential medicines only.
- Establishes maximum reimbursement prices:
Single-source products: based on external reference pricing.
Multi-source or branded generics: based on internal reference prices.
- Reinstates partial patient co-payment for:
Non-EML items.
Prices exceeding Aasandha's maximum reimbursement limit.
The successful launch of the new National Medicine Policy is a significant triumph for WHO Maldives and the Ministry of Health. It reflects our joint commitment to enhancing healthcare systems and ensuring equitable access to essential medicines, in line with the WHO's Essential Medicines List. By prioritizing availability, affordability, quality, safety, and efficacy, Maldives is helping to secure a sustainable and equitable healthcare system for generations to come.
As the Maldives renews its commitment to this initiative, WHO remains steadfast in our dedication to supporting and partnering with the Government.