Managing conflicts of interest, a how-to guide for public pharmaceutical-sector committees in low- and middle-income countries

Overview

This publication aims to provide practical guidance on how to prevent and manage conflicts of interest in the public pharmaceutical system in low- and middle-income countries. Preventing conflicts of interest when and where possible and reducing their impact in pharmaceutical committee decision-making are important measures for safeguarding public health. This guide focuses on public pharmaceutical committees and agencies because of the potential risks posed to the health and safety of populations from conflicts of interest that compromise the integrity of these decision-making processes and the potential impact on public budgets, out-of-pocket expenditures, and public trust in the decisions made and the health system itself.

This guide is intended for policy-makers, managers, committee conveners and chairs, and those involved in oversight looking to strengthen the prevention and management of conflicts of interest in key public pharmaceutical-sector committees and agencies. It is useful for personnel and committee members involved in the selection, registration, reimbursement and procurement of medicines and may be appropriate to other committees as well.