Health systems
Market development approaches scoping report
Using the market to improve access and choice for reproductive health
Authors:
E. Gardiner; D. Schwanenflugel; C. Grace
Publisher:
HLSP Institute, UK, 2006
This paper, produced for the Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition, explores how market development approaches (MDAs) for reproductive health commodities, can contribute to financial sustainability, improved access and expanded choice. The document is also a tool for donors, governments and implementers to learn about MDAs and begin thinking of options and issues to encourage, design, implement, manage and evaluate MDAs. It includes case studies of MDAs in India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Uganda and Morocco. The authors found that MDA ‘models’ - traditionally known as the manufacturer’s model and the NGO model - have become more continuous and evolving. Instead, MDAs use or leverage commercial actors or tools as one or several components or “building blocks” to increase access to and choice of reproductive health supplies.
The report explores a number of lessons learned, including: characteristics that make a market attractive for an MDA intervention; what makes a good commercial partner; what makes a good MDA implementer; what types of products are suitable for MDAs; and whether competition between MDAs is a good thing. The authors highlight the need to develop more tools, arguing that despite their initial expense, they are well worth the investment. They also highlight the importance of evaluating MDA approaches and sharing these findings.
