1. To promote the development and strengthening of effective financing schemes/systems so as to ensure availability at all times of essential drugs of assured quality for PHC.

2. To facilitate and improve access to essential drugs at affordable prices for the entire population.

3. To identify ways in which the public can contribute to the cost of essential drugs.

4. To improve financial management including cost analysis and cost-sharing mechanism(s) to help ensure regular supply of essential drugs.

5. To improve the rational selection and the application of appropriate drug purchasing system(s) so as to accrue a significant impact on the prices of drugs.

6. To explore ways and means of improving the supply of essential drugs so as to promote their availability.

Expected results include the following:

1. Clearer understanding of practical drug financing mechanisms for government health services and, in particular, for PHC.

2. Self-assessment of cost-sharing for drugs, including policy, management, access and equity effects, drug availability, and financial aspects.