Table 2 Key Actions to Strengthen Supply Chains. WHO, 2020

□ Develop supply and distribution strategies for medicines and other health commodities that may be in short supply or are likely to be in high demand, taking into account safety and security.

□ Adapt replenishment procedures to avoid community shortages, limiting facility encounters through multi-month dispensing, if supplies permit

□ As supply levels allow, consider pre-positioning a buffer supply of at least a 1 month (and ideally longer) of essential resources for community-level service delivery. Designate resources specifically for use by the community health workforce, and anticipate increased resource needs.

□ Coordinate the assessment, ordering and distribution of essential medicines, supplies (including PPE) and equipment with partners and community stakeholders.

□ Ensure that pharmacies, health posts and other relevant public and private community-based entities are included in capacity assessments for the production and distribution of essential resources.

□ Ensure that community-based pathways for medicine stock and distribution are included in electronic systems for order management, assessments and planning, if possible.

□ For those making or accepting deliveries and when dispensing medicine or supplies, avoid excessive contact inside a health facility; for patients with chronic conditions, schedule medicine pick up via text (SMS) message or phone and maintain distance between patients while they wait.

□ Consider using reverse logistics to reposition supplies based on the transmission scenario and feasibility in the local context.