How do I obtain prices from SCMS?

SCMS establishes long-term supply contracts with major suppliers to obtain firm prices for the most frequently purchased HIV/AIDS commodities. These prices will be published by SCMS as they are negotiated. Send a request to SCMS and we will contact you to discuss your requirements. SCMS will then prepare a detailed priced quotation for your consideration.

What is the SCMS Pricing Policy?

We charge the cost of the commodity plus freight and delivery. SCMS will absorb all other service costs related to your order. In the spirit of transparency, from time to time we will report to our clients these service costs, including quality assurance surveillance, for your reference purposes only.

Will SCMS prices be fixed and firm?

Yes, all commodity prices are fixed and firm. Freight and delivery costs may vary dependent on whether we are able to consolidate shipments, and the unpredictable cost of oil that may affect costs charged by the particular carrier. At the time of preparing your price quote, SCMS will provide you an estimated cost of the freight and delivery (including customs clearance). Once the delivery is finalized, we will charge you the actual cost of freight and delivery and provide you with the detail of these costs.

Will SCMS publish a price list, if so when?

Yes, we publish prices of the most frequently purchased commodities in the SCMS e-catalog.

Is SCMS restricted to purchasing US commodities or can you purchase non-US commodities if these offer better value?

SCMS is not restricted to supplying US commodities. We can supply all ARVs that are approved or tentatively approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The manufacturing sites of these FDA- approved ARVs are also specifically approved by the FDA and may or may not be within the US. Please visit Drugs@FDA for more specific FDA Registration information.

Other pharmaceuticals must be manufactured to a standard equivalent to the FDA or similar stringent regulatory authority to ensure safety, quality and efficacy. HIV/AIDS related non-pharmaceutical commodities are purchased to obtain the best value for the Client. The SCMS contract has restrictions on the types of non-pharmaceutical goods that can be purchased so it is best to check with the SCMS procurement agent as to the allowability of such purchases.

Can I expect SCMS prices to be comparable to other procurement agents, for example will the Accelerated Access Initiative (AAI) prices for innovator ARVs be available via SCMS?

Yes, SCMS is fully competitive with suppliers of commodities of similar quality. AAI pricing is available through SCMS.

Can SCMS help in preparing budget, forecast and supply plans to assess the costs of the commodities required?

Yes. SCMS is more than just a source of supply or a procurement service agent. Our services extend beyond the supply of the product to provide technical assistance and advice to our clients. SCMS welcomes the opportunity to contribute to your planning and budgeting in order to achieve the best value and an uninterrupted supply of commodities for your program, whether or not you procure products from us. Please contact your local SCMS office to discuss your requirements. You may also contact us at our Washington-based project management office.