Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. By prioritising five NCDs identified by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) is seeking to expand its support in this area. Following a mapping of initiatives and identification of gaps by the University of Geneva, the SDC has funded a 4-year project to contribute to improving the evidence available to improve access to essential medicines and technologies for NCDs worldwide, using access to diabetes medicines as a key indicator (‘tracer condition’). The University of Geneva is the founder of the NCD Policy Lab initiative, and has established partnerships in a number of countries to develop various activities. This initiative has CRONICAS – Peru, Santé Diabète – Mali and Health Policy Analysis Center (HPAC) – Kyrgyzstan as partners to promote evidence-based policies that improve access to NCD-related care and technologies. This initiative has three main focuses i) Research, ii) Capacity Building and iii) Social Commitment (Services à la Cité), under which the project activities are framed.

Aim:

The aim of the project is to foster an environment that supports the adoption of evidence-based policies to improve access to care, medicines and technologies for Noncommunicable diseases (NCD).

Study design:

The NCD Policy Lab, through various activities and methods, aims to strengthen the connection between scientific evidence and society. To achieve this, it connects academics, policymakers, officials, patients, healthcare professionals, and other stakeholders. It does so by disseminating scientific evidence, developing tools to strengthen capacities, and implementing activities with a focus on social engagement, ensuring that information is accessible to the entire population. Furthermore, it works in collaboration with local and international institutions to improve access to medicines and technologies.

Result:

Ongoing project.

Contact:

Silvana Pérez León, MSc

silvana.perez.leon.q@upch.pe