VTE: What representatives of the pharmaceutical industry discussed with Kyriakos Mitsotakis – New road map for pharmaceutical policy

A meeting with the Prime Minister at Maximos Palace was held by representatives of the Hellenic Business Association (CEFEE), in which the basis of the dialogue on the design of pharmaceutical policy in the coming years was laid. In low and consensual tones, the debate between Kyriakos Mitsotakis and pharmaceutical representatives focused on the management of pharmaceutical expenditure, the challenges facing the pharmaceutical industry and strategies to reduce refunds (rebate and clawback). CORVERSE The representatives of the ETF expressed their concerns about the high cost of refunds borne by companies, but avoided referring to possible withdrawals of innovative drugs from the Greek market, even though such statements had previously been made. The financing of the drug after the Recovery Fund Kyriakos Mitsotakis reportedly analysed for his part the financing plan after the end of support from the Recovery and Durability Fund (RRF), pointing out that the 300m euros secured through it will set the basis for the next few years. After this phase is completed, the state will have EUR 100 million annually from the budget to support pharmaceutical expenditure. CORVERSE At the same time, the government commits itself to providing incentives for investment in the pharmaceutical industry, while the aim is for the economic indicators of 2024 and 2025 to be clearly improved in relation to the past. In its intentions it is also, as stated at the meeting, the new electronic prescription system, which is being implemented soon, to help reduce unnecessary drug consumption. This will put under control the uncontrolled ‘cursa’ of pharmaceutical expenditure. The members of the ETF, however, pointed out that despite the positive intentions available funds are not sufficient to cover existing financial gaps. VTE: In historical “high” the clawback It is worth noting that according to the CLA, the total charges of the pharmaceutical industry exceed 50% , while for hospital drugs clawback has reached the outrageous 83% , with some hospitals, such as Papageorgiou Hospital, even exceeding 92% . The pharmaceutical companies, shortly before receiving the new “notes” for compulsory refunds of the second half of 2023 and the first half of 2024, express their deep concern about their viability. As they argue, these high charges “freak” innovation and investment while endangering patients’ access to new treatments. Necessary dialogue on the future of the drug The meeting was described as constructive and laid the foundations for an open dialogue between the government and the pharmaceutical industry. Despite the current objections, both sides seem to agree on the need to take decisions to ensure that patients access innovative treatments while supporting the sustainability of the health system. The meeting was also attended by officials of the Ministry of Health, such as Nadia Gogosatos, chairman of the Committee on Drug Prices Negotiating, and special pharmaceutical policy adviser, Babis Karathanos.