WGPlus (Archive)

It always comes down to ‘cost’ in the end

The Accelerated Access Review: final report, commissioned by the government and led by an independent chair, has been published. The review aims to make the UK a world-leader in healthcare innovation, with an NHS that embraces the new drugs & technologies that patients need and supports work with local areas to develop solutions to their specific healthcare needs. 

The report says streamlined processes could bring forward patient access to drugs by up to 4 years and patients will benefit from quicker access to medical technologies too.  The report will help the NHS to provide the best care to patients, use funds more effectively, and create the conditions to help the life sciences industry continue to thrive.

The review recommends a simpler process for digital technologies which are often developed by smaller companies, such as healthcare apps for managing long-term conditions.

The review also suggests that a new strategic commercial unit should be created within NHS England to enter into commercial dialogue to create flexible arrangements with innovators who are working on transformative new products. The unit would aim for “win-win” scenarios where innovators benefit through earlier access to the NHS market and increased sales.  In return innovators would offer better value to the NHS and patients.

The government will now consider the proposals and respond more fully in due course, mindful of the need to ensure affordability.

Researched Links:

DH:  Getting patients quicker access to innovative healthcare

NHS Confederation - King's Fund report shows "long-term improvements put on back burner"

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