Procuring CycleBeads and Establishing
Appropriate Logistics Systems
| One of the SDM’s key advantages is
that the method does not involve recurring commodity costs.
In most programs the SDM is offered in conjunction with CycleBeads,
a simple device that allows users to monitor easily their
fertile and infertile days. CycleBeads are estimated to have
a product life of more than 2 years, and the estimated annualized
cost is including shipping approximately US$0.75. This makes
the SDM cost-effective and represents a major advantage for
both programs and users. |
CycleBeads®
|
Key Actions
- Assess demand for CycleBeads
When the SDM is initially introduced the demand for the
method and CycleBeads will usually be low. But by training
providers and increasing client awareness, demand will
increase over time. IRH’s experience in typical
program introductions suggests that the percent of new
family planning users who choose the SDM and CycleBeads
will range between 2 and 15 percent in the first year,
depending on the setting and promotion efforts.. The Procurement
and Manufacturing Guidelines developed with the Program
for Appropriate Technology in Health (PATH) helps program
managers assess the demand for CycleBeads and compare
costs of various procurement options.
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| How
to Procure CycleBeads
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| CycleBeads can be obtained through
the licensed manufacturer and distributor Cycle
Technologies. For more information about
rates for USAID-supported programs, please contact Cycle
Technologies at info@cyclebeads.com
or toll free within the U.S. at 1-877-292-5399. Outside
the U.S. call 1-202-237-0662.
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- Assess the best method of supplying CycleBeads
CycleBeads are available worldwide through the U.S.-based licensed
manufacturer/distributor, Cycle Technologies. They can be purchased
in bulk ( special pricing has been arranged for programs supported
by USAID), in increments of over 500 sets. Order forms for USAID-supported
programs and others can be obtained through info@cyclebeads.com.
Programs can purchase the complete CycleBeads product set including
simple, user-friendly instructional inserts (available in English,
French and Spanish) and calendars. Alternatively, in accordance
with the manufacturer's specifications and based on licensing
agreement, they can import the CycleBeads only, with calendars
and inserts adapted and produced locally. Once the demand for
CycleBeads has been established, countries with high levels
of demand and local capacity for manufacturing and quality control
may want to consider local production. Guidance in making this
assessment also is available in the (name of PATH document).
- Develop a timeline for procurement and international
shipping of CycleBeads.
Cycle Technologies is able to ship CycleBeads within two weeks
of receiving an order. While ocean shipping usually is the most
cost-effective, arrangements can be made for express delivery
of an initial supply ( typically 500-1000 sets).
- Incorporate CycleBeads into the logistics system
Having a sufficient supply of CycleBeads for training providers,
conducting IEC activities, and distributing to clients is critical
for success. Most programs have central distribution and inventory
systems into which they can incorporate CycleBeads.
- Determine whether CycleBeads will be sold to end users,
and if so, establish price to the consumer (SDM user).
Programs must decide whether users will be charged for CycleBeads,
or whether it will be provided without charge, based on their
existing system and whether there are service fees. Service
fees for the SDM can be incorporated into the fee payment system
that exists for the other methods, and this has generally proven
to be acceptable. Some programs provide methods free of charge;
others are dispensed based upon a sliding fee scale and others
are purchased at local pharmacies. If the decision is made to
offer SDM free of charge, programs will need to determine how
they will sustain SDM services for the long term.
Key Procurement & Logistics Materials
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