Introduction
In a bid to make essential cancer drugs more affordable and accessible to the public, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang recently vowed to reduce import tariffs on cancer drugs to zero. However, experts argue that while zero tariffs are a significant step, they alone may not suffice to address the complex issue of high drug prices. This article explores the additional measures required to ensure that patients can afford, access, and benefit from critical cancer treatments.
Zero Tariffs: A Starting Point
During a press conference at the Two Sessions in March 2018, Premier Li Keqiang highlighted the government’s commitment to lowering import tariffs on cancer drugs to zero. This move was seen as a crucial step towards making life-saving medications more affordable for patients in need. Currently, the import tariffs on most drugs in China range between 3-6%. However, some essential cancer drugs, such as Gleevec for leukemia and Avastin for colorectal cancer, remain prohibitively expensive, even with reduced tariffs.
Beyond Tariffs: Comprehensive Solutions
National Procurement Platform
One of the key solutions proposed is the establishment of a national procurement platform. By consolidating the vast market and demand in China, the government can leverage its purchasing power to negotiate directly with manufacturers. This approach would not only help in reducing prices but also ensure a stable supply of essential drugs. The newly formed National Medical Security Administration, which consolidates functions related to healthcare payments, drug and service pricing, and medical assistance, is expected to facilitate the creation and operation of such a platform.
抗癌药物评价数据 System
Another critical step is the development of a Cancer Drug Evaluation Data System leveraging Internet+ technologies. This system would combine computational science, digital technology, and clinical diagnostic evaluations to enhance the country’s healthcare payment supervision and evaluation capabilities. By establishing a list of essential drugs and optimizing price negotiations, this system could help reduce the overall cost of cancer treatment in China.
Streamlining Drug Approval Process
Accelerating the drug approval process is also vital. The 2018 National People’s Congress approved a reform plan that includes a separate drug regulatory function under the State Administration for Market Regulation. This is expected to facilitate the implementation of policies aimed at encouraging drug and medical device innovation, thereby speeding up the review and approval process for new drugs.
Recognizing the Role of Clinical Healthcare Teams
Optimizing the overall effectiveness of cancer treatment also requires recognizing the critical role of clinical healthcare teams. The quality of medical services provided by these teams is crucial in ensuring that patients receive the maximum benefit from expensive and complex treatments. By enhancing the training and recognition of clinical healthcare professionals, the overall efficacy of cancer treatment can be significantly improved.
Learning from International Models
The British model of centralized procurement and value assessment databases offers a valuable lesson. By leveraging information technology and digital technologies, the UK has been able to negotiate lower drug prices and ensure a stable supply of essential cancer drugs. China could adopt a similar approach, tailored to its specific cancer spectrum, to enhance its procurement and pricing decisions.
Conclusion
While reducing import tariffs to zero is an essential step towards making cancer drugs more affordable, it is clear that a multifaceted approach is required. Establishing a national procurement platform, developing a comprehensive drug evaluation system, streamlining the drug approval process, and recognizing the role of clinical healthcare teams are all critical components of a successful strategy. By adopting these measures, China can ensure that patients not only have access to essential cancer drugs but also benefit from them effectively.
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