USAID Global Health Supply Chain Program – Rapid Test Kits Quarterly Report for Period Ending 07-31-2015

The program is implemented by Remote Medical International (RMI) in partnership with Pro-Telligent, a Tetra Tech company, and is primarily focused on PEPFAR countries. The primary objective of the GHSC-RTK program is to ensure the availability of approved RTKs through a global procurement strategy that is responsive to host-country, USAID mission, and other client needs in support of their country-specific plans to combat and eliminate HIV/AIDS. The program is guided by an approved national algorithm for the supply of HIV rapid test kits to a country. The GHSC-RTK team is responsible for commodity procurement and subcontract management, commodity supplier performance management, commodity procurement risk mitigation, logistics processes, and quality assurance and quality control. The team has developed Standard Operating Procedures and has shadowed PFSCM-led procurement activities to ensure a smooth transition. The team has selected five freight forwarding companies through a full-and-open competitive process, which have experience in shipping high-value, time-sensitive items to PEPFAR countries. These companies have proven capabilities in customs clearance procedures, obtaining required import permits, and duty and VAT exemption certificates/waivers. The GHSC-RTK team uses NetSuite, a best-in-class ERP business management software, to manage all aspects of procurement, order fulfillment, logistics, and reporting. The team has customized the software to include a purchasing logic system that takes real-time information and lead time data, and outputs projected ship dates. This system also factors in customers' requirements and alerts the procurement team when a conflict or potential hurdle is identified. The GHSC-RTK program has made significant progress in its first quarter, with the team developing Standard Operating Procedures, shadowing PFSCM-led procurement activities, and conducting mock-procurement exercises in coordination with PFSCM personnel. The program was declared operational by USAID on July 14, 2015, and is now fully operational. The GHSC-RTK program is critical to the PEPFAR response to the 90/90/90 goal, which aims to have 90% of people living with HIV/AIDS know their status, 90% of those receiving treatment, and 90% of treated individuals achieving viral suppression by 2020. HIV RTKs are an essential tool in identifying the first 90% of people infected with HIV/AIDS, and the availability and supply of these kits are paramount to achieving this goal. The GHSC-RTK team consists of experienced professionals, including the IDIQ Director, Task Order Director, Finance Manager, Senior Procurement and Logistics Manager, Procurement and Logistics Manager, and Procurement and Logistics Manager Junior. The team has a strong understanding of the procurement and shipping systems and has prior experience in the procurement and shipping of pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and related supplies. The GHSC-RTK program has a significant impact on the global HIV/AIDS epidemic, and its success is critical to achieving the 90/90/90 goal. The program's focus on ensuring the availability of approved RTKs through a global procurement strategy will play a vital role in supporting the USG's goal of achieving an AIDS-free generation in our lifetime.