This indicator is part of Target (9): Essential medicines and basic technologies for the treatment of serious NCDs. 

The following medicines and types of medication are considered to be NCD medicines: Acetylsalicylic acid; ACE inhibitors; thiazides; long-acting calcium channel blockers; metformin; insulin; bronchodilators; steroid inhalants. 

The following equipment are considered NCD technologies: Blood pressure measurement device; a weighing scale; blood sugar and blood cholesterol measurement devices; urine strips for albumin assay. 

In Norway, access to NCD medicines and technologies is close to 100 per cent. 

With the exception of insulin, there is generic competition in all types of NCD medication. According to the Norwegian Medicines Agency’s shortage review, there have been no significant shortages of the medicines stated above. In case of lack of medicines in these groups, alternative medicines have been available (generics, other strengths/ other pack sizes, import from other countries, medicines in the same ATC-group) 

To safeguard access to insulin in Norway, pharmaceutical wholesalers supplying medicines to pharmacies in Norway are required to maintain additional stocks equivalent to two months of insulin sales. 

The data source for this indicator is the Norwegian Medicines Agency’s shortage review 

Effect measure

• Availability of NCD medicines and technologies 

Indicator 19. Availability and affordability of quality, safe and efficacious essential NCD medicines, including generics, and basic technologies in both public and private facilities.