The Cystic Fibrosis Engagement Network recently published a white paper dealing with issues affecting access to CF treatments. The report notes:
While the Orphan Drug Act successfully increased the research and production of orphan drugs—which made them available in the marketplace—it did not necessarily make them accessible to patients with cystic fibrosis. Certain barriers stand in the way.
After enumerating the challenges, the report concludes:
Granted, innovative medicine is expensive. Yet prior authorizations, step therapy requirements, and slow-moving approval processes all impede patients’ access to treatment, which harms patients and ultimately costs everyone more time and money. Processes and bureaucracies must not put finances above doctors’ judgment about what is best for their patients.
You can read the full report here: CFEN_White_Paper_June-2017
According to their web site, “[t]he Cystic Fibrosis Engagement Network serves as a leading educational and advocacy organization focused on policy matters impacting cystic fibrosis patient access to optimal care.”