What is the focus of the Access to Medicine index?

The Access to Medicine Index specifically measures how pharmaceutical companies contribute to improving access to medicines in lower-income regions. This focus is pivotal because these regions often face significant challenges, such as high prices, limited availability of medicines, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. By assessing the actions of pharmaceutical companies, the index aims to incentivize them to adopt practices that enhance accessibility and affordability of medicines, ultimately supporting public health goals and addressing disparities in healthcare access.

The index evaluates various factors, including the companies' pricing strategies, research and development efforts for diseases prevalent in low-income areas, and their policies on intellectual property. This aligns with global health initiatives that prioritize equitable access to essential medicines, making the index a crucial tool for stakeholders seeking to understand and improve healthcare access in underserved populations.