@article{4221ca21e389418cad5d8d2011f694d5,
title = "Exploring the feasibility of introducing triple artemisinin-based combination therapy in the malaria treatment policy in Vietnam",
abstract = "Background: This study investigates the processes regarding changing malaria treatment policies in Vietnam. Moreover, it explores the feasibility of introducing triple artemisinin-based combination therapy (TACT) in Vietnam to support the national malaria control and elimination plan. Methods: Data were collected via 12 in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, combined with a review of policy documents. Results: TACT is considered as a useful backup strategy in case future treatment failures with current artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) would occur. Moreover, TACT is also considered as a promising strategy to prevent the re-establishment of malaria. However, regulatory procedures and implementation timelines for TACT were expected to be lengthy. Therefore, strategies to engage national decision-makers, regulators, and suppliers should be initiated soon, stipulating the benefits of TACT deployment. In Vietnam, a procedure to apply for an import permit without registration that has previously been applied to the introduction of artesunate-pyronaridine was proposed to accelerate the introduction of TACT. Global-level support through the World Health Organization recommendations and prequalification were considered critical for supporting the introduction of TACT in Vietnam. Conclusions: Appropriate approach strategies and early stakeholder engagement will be needed to accelerate the introduction of TACT in Vietnam.",
keywords = "Drug resistance, Introduction strategies, Triple artemisinin-based combination therapy (TACT)",
author = "Cao, {Van Anh Thi} and Nguyen, {Thieu Quang} and {le Quyen}, Duong and Boon, {Wouter P. C.} and Moors, {Ellen H. M.} and Dondorp, {Arjen M.} and {de Haan}, Freek and Chanaki Amaratunga",
note = "Funding Information: We would like to express our sincere gratitude to UK Aid from the UK government{\textquoteright}s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office for their financial support. We also wish to thank the leaders of the National Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology (NIMPE) to support to connect with malaria experts in Vietnam to engage in interviews. Finally, we are grateful to all of the interview participants who generously gave their time and effort to this project. Funding Information: The Ministry of Health (MoH) is responsible for the national malaria control and elimination program, including formulation of policies and strategies. The National Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology (NIMPE) in Hanoi is responsible for development, coordination and technical oversight of the national program in collaboration with two regional Institutes of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology (IMPEs) in Quy Nhon and Ho Chi Minh. The provincial, district, and commune levels are responsible for implementation of activities following the guidance of the national program. Malaria case detection and treatment are provided free of charge at the commune level and in public healthcare facilities. Malaria cases detected by private health care providers are referred to the public sector for treatment. Malaria control activities are supported financially by the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM). Technical support is provided by the WHO. The Drug Administration of Vietnam (DAV) under the management of MoH is responsible for drug regulation in Vietnam. Funding Information: We would like to express our sincere gratitude to UK Aid from the UK government{\textquoteright}s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office for their financial support. We also wish to thank the leaders of the National Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology (NIMPE) to support to connect with malaria experts in Vietnam to engage in interviews. Finally, we are grateful to all of the interview participants who generously gave their time and effort to this project. Publisher Copyright: {\textcopyright} 2023, The Author(s).",
year = "2023",
month = dec,
day = "1",
doi = "https://doi.org/10.1186/s12936-023-04763-4",
language = "English",
volume = "22",
journal = "Malaria journal",
issn = "1475-2875",
publisher = "BioMed Central",
number = "1",
}