Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
Table 9.3 (continued)
Problem of IPR System
HIF Intervention
Counterfeiting and its consequences
The large proit margins that can be achieved on pharmaceutical products
encourage the illegal manufacture and sale of counterfeit medicines that
lead not only to complications for patients, but in the medium term also
to drug-resistant strains of diseases
Since counterfeiting is a criminal activity in most jurisdictions, the
risk is worth taking only if a high mark-up on production costs
can be earned. HIF-supported products would be sold without
mark-up and therefore unlikely to attract counterfeiters
The 'last mile' problem
Pharmaceutical companies have poor incentives to promote the optimum
use of their medicines and to ensure that their drugs reach those, and
only those, who need them. In terms of company proits, the interest of
the company stops when the medicine has been sold over the
pharmacy's counter
11
Pharmaceutical innovators would have incentives to contribute their
expertise and inventiveness toward resolving any local health
infrastructure problems that might impede the health impact of their
products
11
The 'last mile' problem is about getting drugs to patients in settings with inadequate health infrastructures. It is particularly troubling in the poorest coun-
tries, where medical resources are stretched very thin and it may be dificult or impossible for patients to obtain accurate diagnoses or treatment in hospital.
