Recognizing the negative impacts of pricing and reimbursement delays, Europe pursues measures to boost pharmaceutical innovation for the benefit of patients.

In order to boost the competitiveness of the European-based pharmaceutical industry “in line with the European Union’s health objectives”, the European commission announced plans that include:

• Examining the scope “for improving delays generated by pricing and reimbursement decisions”
• “Improving patient information, strengthening the role of patients in public health decision-making”
• ”Establishing a level playing field on intellectual property protection and providing support to new Member States to implement the legislative framework”

Chart Source: EFPIA, The Pharmaceutical Industry in Figures, 2003

In announcing these plans The European Commissioner of Health and Consumer Protection noted: “We all know that there is considerable room for improving the way that medicines reach patients. The measures proposed in this communication will help ensure the future supply of high quality, safe and effective medicines to all who need them.