Box 1.

Key factors for development of an essential medicines list

Establishing a transparent process for creating and updating the list of essential medicines, provide a voice for key stakeholders, but ensure a scientific, evidence-based process

Linkage with standard clinical guidelines and involvement of both specialists and primary care providers

Garner support from senior clinicians, academic institutions, public health professionals, professional organizations, non-governmental organizations and community members

Making the list available (essential medicines, formulary manuals and clinical guidelines) in all health care facilities/health care providers in both printed and electronic format

Consider launching of new or revised lists with the involvement of concerned government officials with adequate publicity

Making clear the specific legal or administrative authority of the essential medicines list for training, procurement, reimbursement and public information

Establishing an administrative or budgetary “safety valve” for the limited supply and use of non-listed medicines

Regular Updating of the list so that it reflects therapeutic advances and changes in cost, resistance patterns and public health relevance