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ARV Policy and Management Short Course
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Funding through the Global Fund, PEPFAR, and other initiatives has recently transformed AIDS into a treatable
disease in developing and transitional countries. Resources such as antiretrovirals (ARVs) and diagnostics are
now available; however, rapid scale-up of AIDS treatment programs has not occurred, in part due to ARV drug
management issues. ARV drug management issues include difficulties with pharmaceutical supply systems and
logistics, insufficient human resources to provide antiretroviral therapy (ART), and barriers to ARV adherence.
Successful HIV/AIDS treatment programs rely on consistent, uninterrupted supplies of ARVs, appropriate ARV
prescribing, and adherence by consumers. Ineffective ARV management can lead to treatment failures, ARV resistance,
and insufficient program uptake. This course provides practical skills to effectively manage unique challenges
that present in ARV management.
The course, conducted in collaboration with WHO, attracts a mix of current MPH students and experienced
public health practitioners. The format is highly interactive, with presentations by international experts followed
by facilitated group exercises and discussion. Case studies and guided readings are provided, with substantial
preparation required for each session. Useful articles and resources are also provided. A focus group session with
persons living with HIV/AIDS is conducted during class to expose participants to patient challenges in adhering to
ARV regimens. A field visit to an ARV Adherence Clinic is arranged.
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LATEST UPDATES
Information from the Third International Conference for Improving Use of Medicines, ICIUM2011
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