Implementation of global strategy and plan of action on public health, innovation and intelectual property

Overview

The National Assessment for implementation of the Global Strategy and Plan of Action on Public Health, Innovation and Intellectual Property (GSPA-PHI) was carried out in Sri Lanka as per the World Health Assembly Resolution 61.21. This is the first assessment carried out in the South-East Asia Region (SEAR).

The assessment aimed to understand the present status of Public Health, Innovation, and Intellectual Property in Sri Lanka for further national action on GSPA-PHI. A tool prepared by the World Health Organization (WHO) was used, with minor modifications as appropriate to the Sri Lankan context, to carry out the assessment.

There were several steps in the assessment process. The tool was introduced to the stakeholder institutions at face-to-face meetings with high-level officials, and their support for the assessment was sought. The tool was then sent to the stakeholder institutions to collect information on areas relevant to each institution.

A discussion paper was prepared based on the responses received. Representatives of the institutions were invited to a consultative workshop in April 2014 to review and revise the discussion paper. The refined discussion paper was then sent to high-level officials of the institutions. The national assessment was finalized at a consultative meeting held in September 2014.

The findings of the national assessment are presented in six main sections:
(i) Health Research and Development
(ii) Manufacturing of Pharmaceuticals
(iii) Application and Management of Intellectual Property
(iv) Improving Delivery and Access
(v) Traditional Medicine
(vi) Monitoring and Reporting

Each section is further divided into subsections to provide additional clarity to the assessment.

Sri Lanka has a National Science and Technology (S&T) policy. Several institutions are dedicated to promoting research and development (R&D) in general, and health R&D in particular. However, the country still has much to do in terms of coordinating R&D efforts to support public health objectives. Additionally, the investment available for health R&D needs further prioritization.

The current capacity to develop health products—particularly pharmaceuticals and related technologies—is weak. Therefore, the pharmaceutical sector requires major investments to effectively support public health goals. Existing processes also need to be strengthened to ensure continuous access to quality medicines and other health products.