Access

Access to diagnostics doesn’t just mean investing in the development of fit-for-purpose tools and technology.

Even when such tools exist, high costs, market monopolies, weak supply chains, and issues of social and cultural acceptability all limit access to testing, especially in low- and middle-income countries. These challenges are compounded by a reliance on traditional, centralized (urban) testing models, limited diagnostic infrastructure, not to mention policy systems and processes that struggle to keep pace with a rapidly evolving diagnostic landscape.

Scaling up and sustaining the use of diagnostics requires decentralized testing, healthcare worker training, laboratory systems strengthening and integration of testing for different diseases where relevant (such as COVID-19 testing being integrated into country TB programmes). Tackling these challenges requires a range of integrated solutions that span the whole diagnostic journey.

Led by country priorities, we work with partners to tailor testing strategies and delivery models that can help meet national and regional health delivery goals, including supporting the development and implementation of national essential diagnostics lists. We provide transparent market information and work with manufacturers to make diagnostic prices more affordable. In partnership with industry, global health procurement agencies and private sector buyers, we also provide tools to fill gaps where no global procurement mechanism currently exists.