Table 1.
Procuring Contraceptives Requires Special Skills |
| Characteristics | Skills Required |
|---|
| Contraceptives (for example, condoms) require special testing protocols and procedures. |
An understanding of testing protocols and knowledge of testing laboratories. Familiarity with national and international quality standards. |
| Unlike most drugs, some contraceptives (for example, Norplant implants) are not available in generic form. Equivalent products may be available only under brand names. |
Knowledge of formulations and brands. Ability to draft specifications to maximize competition. |
| Contraceptives are manufactured in only a few developing countries. The scope for local purchasing at good prices may be limited. |
International purchasing skills, including international contracts law and payment procedures. |
| There may be a limited number of contraceptive suppliers. |
Advanced negotiating skills. Ability to obtain information on international market prices. |
| The quantities purchased by a Ministry of Health may be small and therefore unattractive to manufacturers. |
Negotiation skills. Knowledge of pooled procurement options. Knowledge of bulk
purchasing options. |
| Brand preferences may be a major factor in clients’ acceptance of methods. |
Knowledge of family planning program considerations. Ability to collaborate with service delivery and communication components of the program on issues related to branding. |
Source: Family Planning Logistics Management, 2000 (49) Population Reports
|
