General benefits

In open questions put to all respondent categories, many respondents indicated various benefits they had derived from the Guidelines. The most frequently quoted benefits are summarized below.

About one-third of all respondents indicated that the Guidelines provided a beneficial framework for improved drug donation practices and procedures. Many respondents noted the link between the Guidelines and a national drug policy: the Guidelines are needed to support a national drug policy, or may lead to its development.

More than 20 respondents reported better documentation of consignments as well as improved communication between donors, consolidators and recipients. Fifteen mentioned that requests for donations are now more carefully solicited and formulated in keeping with the Guidelines.

Many respondents believe that the Guidelines are useful tools for curtailing inappropriate donations. Sixteen reported enhanced awareness and understanding of drug donation issues. Twelve felt that the Guidelines help to ensure the quality of donations.