Operational research is necessary for the successful implementation of the National Drug Policy. Its aim is to identify the best methods of selecting, procuring, distributing and using drugs rationally. Its application shall lead to practical and cost-effective measures which would inform managerial, educational and regulatory interventions to improve access to and the use of drugs.

Research will focus particularly on the following areas:

i. Identifying the impact of the National Drug Policy and its components on the national health system and health service delivery;

ii. Drug utilisation at different levels of health care facilities;

iii. The economics of drug supplies; and

iv. Social and cultural aspects of drug use, such as self-medication, acceptability and attitudes of drug consumers, etc..