Integration of private drug vendors in primary health care: Challenges and opportunities in low- and middle-income countries

Private pharmacies and drug shops are ubiquitous in many countries and often the first point of care for primary health care services. But they are not well organized or integrated into overarching health system functions for governance, financing and service delivery. This report reviews how health system planners can better leverage these providers for public health objectives as well as help improve and optimize their service offerings. It draws on desk research and consultations to synthesize ideas and opportunities for future support by policymakers and their global health partners on this topic in low- and middle-income countries.

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