Table 4.

Adequacy criteria for the ACT strategy

	GRADE: Total criteria: 8 6.5 to 8 criteria satisfied = Programme implementation adequate 4.5 to 6 criteria satisfied = Programme implementation of intermediate adequacy 0 to 4 criteria satisfied = Programme implementation deficient
No.	Criteria
	Preliminary studies
1	In vivo or in vitro studies on the resistance of P. falciparum [to] medications in previous treatment plans were carried out [11]
2	In vivo or in vitro studies on the sensitivity of P. falciparum to ACT were carried out [11]
	Coverage
3	At least 80% of P. falciparum cases receive ACT [7]
4	No ACT stockouts occurred in the public network in the last three years [7]
	Quality
5	Updated protocols and standards exist for ACT in the country's treatment plans [11]
6	A system is in place for monitoring ACT treatment failures [11]
7	According to standards, ACT is only given when a positive result (microscopic or rapid diagnostic test) occurs for P. falciparum
8	A systematic procedure exists to monitor the appropriate application of standards and protocols for ACT [11]