Health financing and access to medicines in the Caribbean

Abstract

For millions of people, including those in the Caribbean region, accessing affordable and high-quality medicines poses significant challenges. These include affordability issues, concerns over the quality and safety of medicines, and inadequate financing for health care, as well as the inappropriate use of essential medicines, weak or limited regulatory systems, and complex procurement and supply chain management processes. The Caribbean region also faces a unique set of challenges, including high levels of public debt and significant informal economies. These factors constrain the capacity of governments to invest in social programs and agendas, including the provision of universal health coverage. At present, public spending on health care in the region is only 3.9% of gross domestic product, well below the 6% target. Consequently, many people must rely on out-of-pocket payments for health care, including medicines. This financial burden creates barriers to accessing health care and can lead to the irrational use of prescription drugs and other medicines. This report offers an initial and concise evaluation of certain health financing aspects that are crucial for accessing medicines in the Caribbean. It also provides a preliminary set of recommendations to guide national and regional efforts to improve the region’s current organization, financing, and provision of medicines. These recommendations aim to tackle the significant challenges highlighted in the report, including those related to system financing, barriers to access, and the financial burden of out-of-pocket costs. Envisioned as an integral part of a broader series of initiatives, this study aims to promote equitable, affordable, and sustainable access to medicines and health technologies by strengthening regulatory frameworks and production capacities, as well as by promoting the rational use of medicines. The publication also aims to be a useful resource for policymakers, health professionals, and other stakeholders in the region and beyond, as they work toward ensuring that everyone in the Caribbean has access to the medicines they need to lead healthy and productive lives, and that the region can achieve sustainable and equitable health financing.