iClinic - April 26, 2000
Marjolein Harvey
Senior Pfizer executives presented their offer to the Minister and responded to questions raised by the government.
Government welcomed the offer and emphasised that, if the offer should be accepted, government had a responsibility to ensure that access to the drug was sustainable, and available to all who needed it.
Government concurred with Pfizer on the need to ensure that the drug was dispensed on the basis of proper diagnosis and then distributed and monitored through existing health service infrastructure.
Pfizer emphasised its commitment to community health in South Africa as evidenced by their continued support of health-related community projects in South Africa.
"Cryptoccocal Meningitis is a serious threat to people with HIV/AIDS in our communities. We are pleased to have this opportunity of possible collaboration with Pfizer on a programme to treat the disease," said Tshablalala-Msimang.
Jack Watters, Pfizer's Medical Director for the Africa, Middle East, Asia region said, "We look forward to working with the Ministry of Health to develop the best possible programme to address this immediate public health need."
The fruitful meeting concluded with an agreement that the Minister would present details of Pfizer's offer to the National AIDS Council and the Health MinMEc.
The Minister will revert to Pfizer after discussion with these bodies.
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