Donation & Philanthropy

What we measure

Product Donations

Donations are typically made by companies in response to governments and/or non-governmental agencies due to emergencies, and are generally taken from available stock (supply driven or multi-drug donations). Some companies also attempt to target specific Index Diseases and geographical areas through ongoing donation programs. These “single-drug donations,” are typically need-driven targeted programs with a defined strategy as to the type, volume, and destination of donated products. These sustained single-drug donation programs are believed to be more effective than ad hoc inventory driven programs.

It is important that all donations be carried out responsibly and in accordance with internationally recognized standards, such as the WHO Inter-Agency Guidelines for Drug Donations. Unwanted or inappropriate donations (e.g. close to expiry products, improperly labeled products, etc.) place an additional burden on IC health systems, as mechanisms and resources for safe and effective drug disposal may be lacking or costly. 

Philanthropy

Index 2010 considers those philanthropic activities focused on building health infrastructure and local health delivery systems in Index Countries. Health infrastructure deficiencies such as lack of effective healthcare financing, or healthcare delivery infrastructure are major barriers to ATM in most of the Index Countries. Especially in the case of Chronic Diseases, due to the long-term need for care, strong health infrastructure is indispensible to successful care. 

While such activities are not the primary responsibility of the pharmaceutical industry, there is a business incentive for companies to invest in this area. Not only does strengthening health infrastructure facilitate greater ATM at the local level, it also allows companies to deliver their products in the target markets more effectively. Such initiatives also help build better relationships with local authorities and communities.