The World Health Organization (WHO) has initiated a pilot program called the WHO Expert Review Panel for Diagnostic Products (ERPD) to improve the quality and accessibility of diagnostic tools for Neglected Tropical Diseases.

In-vitro diagnostics (IVDs) are rapidly evolving, posing challenges for healthcare providers, programs, and public health authorities. Low profit margins and limited returns on investment make the market unattractive, leading to product quality uncertainties. Global regulatory framework revisions and costly procedures have disrupted the availability of some NTD diagnostics, making the market unattractive for manufacturers and suppliers.

While there are initiatives in place to guide manufacturers, regulatory agencies, and healthcare programs in making optimal choices for quality-assured, safe, and high-performing In-Vitro Diagnostics (IVDs) through the WHO IVD Prequalification Program (WHO PQ), it's important to note that not all categories of IVDs are covered by this program. Currently, Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) diagnostics are not included in the WHO prequalification scope. To address this gap, the WHO PQ is introducing the Expert Review Panel for Diagnostic Products (ERPD) pilot scheme for NTDs.

The ERPD is an independent advisory body that provides expert advice on specific types of IVDs, such as non-prequalified diagnostics (NTDs), to ensure they adhere to international quality standards. The WHO PQ team coordinates technical experts to evaluate risks and benefits of these products, providing valuable guidance for procurers, donors, and national disease control programs in making procurement decisions regarding candidate products.

The upcoming Expert Review Panel for NTDs will be under the coordinated efforts of the WHO PQ team, working closely with the Global NTD Programme. This collaboration underscores WHO's unwavering commitment to addressing NTDs and elevating both global health equity and patient care.