IPSF Statement on Global strategy and plan of action 


on public health, innovation and intellectual property
delivered at the 142nd WHO Executive Board Meeting
 


Statement on the 142nd WHO EB agenda point

3.7 Global strategy and plan of action on public health,
innovation and intellectual property

The International Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation is the voice of over 350,000

pharmacy students and recent graduates in 88 different countries worldwide.
IPSF believes the recommended actions in the report by the DG sufficiently address
several key developments for Member States to take into account.
As pharmacy and pharmaceutical science students and recent graduates, IPSF
especially commends the efforts on striving towards open access to scientific
articles. Research plays a considerable role in pharmaceutical studies, particularly in
pharmaceutical sciences. Students may sometimes be faced with difficulties in
obtaining research papers for their own work, even with universities’ access.
Additionally, less well-positioned universities may struggle to obtain sufficient access,
ultimately reducing the qualifications of the future health workforce and reducing
the quality of evidence-based care that can be provided to patients. These efforts, in
combination with enhancing overall research and clinical trial capacities from a
medical point of view, are crucial in discovering new, safe and effective medicines.
Directed research, however, should be assessed for wider implications with regards to
competencies obtained by students and young researchers. IPSF recommends the
report also cover this point.
Additionally, IPSF believes such innovation should be paired with equally innovative
and efficient care delivery, to take full advantage of new health technologies and
products. The potential expansion of the Medicines Patent Pool could likewise
improve care delivery in critical areas by ensuring solid access to medicines. These
desired outcomes, however, call for strong collaboration between member states and
the guidance of the WHO Secretariat.

In conclusion, IPSF voices its support for an emphasis on improved funding for
research & health technologies, especially in developing countries, which in turn can
enhance the quality of care that patients receive.