The Essential Medicines List (EML) is designed to ensure availability of the most effective, safe, and cost-efficient medicines for priority healthcare needs. It helps in guiding procurement by focusing resources on critical drugs, promotes rational drug use by standardizing treatments, and supports formulating national drug policies by defining priorities in healthcare. However, the EML does not promote direct-to-consumer advertising, as such ads can lead to irrational drug use and overconsumption, conflicting with the list's goal of promoting safe and rational medicine use.

Reference: WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, World Health Organization, 22nd Edition.