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Michaeli DT, Michaeli T, Albers S, Boch T, Michaeli JC. Special FDA designations for drug development: orphan, fast track, accelerated approval, priority review, and breakthrough therapy. THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS : HEPAC : HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PREVENTION AND CARE 2024; 25:979-997. [PMID: 37962724 PMCID: PMC11283430 DOI: 10.1007/s10198-023-01639-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the past decades, US Congress enabled the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to facilitate and expedite drug development for serious conditions filling unmet medical needs with five special designations and review pathways: orphan, fast track, accelerated approval, priority review, and breakthrough therapy. OBJECTIVES This study reviews the FDA's five special designations for drug development regarding their safety, efficacy/clinical benefit, clinical trials, innovation, economic incentives, development timelines, and price. METHODS We conducted a keyword search to identify studies analyzing the impact of the FDA's special designations (orphan, fast track, accelerated approval, priority review, and breakthrough therapy) on the safety, efficacy/clinical benefit, trials, innovativeness, economic incentives, development times, and pricing of new drugs. Results were summarized in a narrative overview. RESULTS Expedited approval reduces new drugs' time to market. However, faster drug development and regulatory review are associated with more unrecognized adverse events and post-marketing safety revisions. Clinical trials supporting special FDA approvals frequently use small, non-randomized, open-label designs. Required post-approval trials to monitor unknown adverse events are often delayed or not even initiated. Evidence suggests that drugs approved under special review pathways, marketed as "breakthroughs", are more innovative and deliver a higher clinical benefit than those receiving standard FDA approval. Special designations are an economically viable strategy for investors and pharmaceutical companies to develop drugs for rare diseases with unmet medical needs, due to financial incentives, expedited development timelines, higher clinical trial success rates, alongside greater prices. Nonetheless, patients, physicians, and insurers are concerned about spending money on drugs without a proven benefit or even on drugs that turn out to be ineffective. While European countries established performance- and financial-based managed entry agreements to account for this uncertainty in clinical trial evidence and cost-effectiveness, the pricing and reimbursement of these drugs remain largely unregulated in the US. CONCLUSION Special FDA designations shorten clinical development and FDA approval times for new drugs treating rare and severe diseases with unmet medical needs. Special-designated drugs offer a greater clinical benefit to patients. However, physicians, patients, and insurers must be aware that special-designated drugs are often approved based on non-robust trials, associated with more unrecognized side effects, and sold for higher prices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Tobias Michaeli
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 460, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
- TUM School of Management, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
| | - Thomas Michaeli
- Department of Personalized Oncology, University Hospital Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Division of Personalized Medical Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Albers
- Department of Orthopaedics and Sport Orthopaedics, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Tobias Boch
- Department of Personalized Oncology, University Hospital Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Division of Personalized Medical Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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Stimpson JP, Park S, Wilson FA, Ortega AN. Variations in Unmet Health Care Needs by Perceptions of Social Media Health Mis- and Disinformation, Frequency of Social Media Use, Medical Trust, and Medical Care Discrimination: Cross-Sectional Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2024; 10:e56881. [PMID: 39037327 PMCID: PMC11261906 DOI: 10.2196/56881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Unmet need for health care is defined as choosing to postpone or completely avoid necessary medical treatment despite having a need for it, which can worsen current conditions or contribute to new health problems. The emerging infodemic can be a barrier that prevents people from accessing quality health information, contributing to lower levels of seeking medical care when needed. Objective We evaluated the association between perceptions of health mis- and disinformation on social media and unmet need for health care. In addition, we evaluated mechanisms for this relationship, including frequency of social media use, medical trust, and medical care discrimination. Methods Data from 3964 active adult social media users responding to the 2022 Health Information National Trends Survey 6 (HINTS 6), a nationally representative survey, were analyzed. The outcome was unmet need for medical care, defined as delaying or not getting the necessary medical care. The predictor variables were perception of social media health mis- and disinformation, frequency of social media use, level of trust in the health care system, and perceived racial and ethnic discrimination when receiving health care. Results Multivariable logistic regression models indicated that perception of substantial social media health mis- and disinformation (odds ratio [OR] 1.40, 95% CI 1.07-1.82), daily use of social media (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.01-1.79), low medical trust (OR 1.46, 95% CI 1.06-2.01), and perceived discrimination (OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.44-3.50) were significantly associated with a higher likelihood of unmet need for medical care. Unmet need among adults who did not use social media daily and who did not perceive substantial mis- and disinformation (24%; 95% CI 19%-30%) was lower compared to daily social media users who perceived substantial mis- and disinformation (38%; 95% CI 32%-43%). Adults who perceived substantial mis- and disinformation and had low trust in health care had the highest probability of reporting unmet need (43%; 95% CI 38%-49%) compared to the other three groups. Adults who perceived substantial mis- and disinformation and experienced medical care discrimination had a statistically significant higher probability of reporting unmet need (51%; 95% CI 40%-62%) compared to adults who did not experience medical care discrimination and did not perceive substantial mis- and disinformation (29%; 95% CI 26%-32%). Conclusions Unmet need for medical care was higher among individuals who perceived a substantial degree of social media mis- and disinformation, especially among those who used social media daily, did not trust the health care system, and experienced racial or ethnic discrimination when receiving health care. To counter the negative effects of social media mis- and disinformation on unmet need for health care, public health messaging must focus on daily social media users as well as improving trust and reducing structural racism in the health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim P Stimpson
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Sungchul Park
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Korea University, Seol, Republic of Korea
| | - Fernando A Wilson
- Matheson Center for Health Care Studies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Alexander N Ortega
- Thompson School of Social Work and Public Health, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
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Pasmooij AMG, Mol PGM, Bot JC, Leufkens HGM. The Evolution of Drug Regulatory Sciences in the Netherlands: More than a Country Report. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2024; 116:64-71. [PMID: 38679943 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.3275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
In the Netherlands, drug regulatory science is a vibrant national and internationally oriented community. In this review, we present the factors that have contributed to this successful collaboration between relevant stakeholders and that led to a surge of activities around how regulatory science became embedded in the ecosystem of medicines research, clinical pharmacology, policymaking and regulation. We distinguished three pivotal episodes: (i) TI Pharma Escher-project, (ii) Dutch Medicines Evaluation Board as catalyst of the big jump, and (iii) Regulatory Science Network Netherlands and multistakeholder engagement. The research agenda has been influenced by the dynamic evolution of legal frameworks in Europe, such as the EU orphan medicines legislation of 2001 and the EU pharmacovigilance legislation of 2012. All these developments have inspired and have raised pertinent regulatory sciences questions. Furthermore, clinical pharmacology as a discipline has been very influential in shaping regulatory science, contributing to discussions on the level of clinical evidence that is necessary to justify marketing approval of a new medicine. With a growing interest of multiple parties such as academics, European Medicines Agency, national agencies, patient organizations and EFPIA, connecting regulatory science activities is key.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M G Pasmooij
- Dutch Medicines Evaluation Board, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regulatory Science Network Netherlands, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter G M Mol
- Dutch Medicines Evaluation Board, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regulatory Science Network Netherlands, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jacob Cornelis Bot
- Regulatory Science Network Netherlands, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Janssen Biologics BV, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Lygature, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hubert G M Leufkens
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Regulatory Science Network Netherlands, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Lygature, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Madrid Paredes J, Versteeg JW, Vreman RA, Bloem LT. Agreement about Availability of Alternative Treatments for Innovative Drugs Assessed by the EMA and HTA Organizations. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2024; 116:136-146. [PMID: 38505926 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.3252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) and European national/regional health technology assessment (HTA) organizations consider the availability of existing treatments when evaluating a new drug. Since disagreement about the availability of alternative treatments may impact patient access to new drugs, this study aimed to investigate whether the EMA and HTA organizations agreed on the availability of alternative treatments and whether a lack of alternative treatments was associated with HTA organizations' added benefit assessment outcomes. For 97 innovative drugs authorized in 2019-2021 (excluding vaccines and diagnostic tools), assessments by the EMA and AEMPS (Spain), AIFA (Italy), HAS (France), IQWiG/G-BA (Germany), NICE (England and Wales), and ZIN (the Netherlands) were identified. Until 1 June 2022, 429 HTA drug-indication combinations were identified for these 97 drugs, of which 205 exactly matched the EMA's indication. For those, the overall agreement between the EMA and HTA organizations on whether alternative treatments were available was 87%. The agreement of HTA organizations with the EMA on whether available treatments were either pharmacological on-label, pharmacological off-label, or non-pharmacological was 87%, 21%, and 57%, respectively. For all 429 HTA drug-indication combinations, absence of alternative treatments as considered by HTA organizations was associated with a higher chance to provide added benefit: risk ratio 1.8 (95%-CI 1.4-2.3). In conclusion, although there was high overall agreement between the EMA and HTA organizations about whether alternative treatments exist, there were differences in the types of treatment considered. Parallel joint scientific consultations could inform drug developers about relevant alternative treatments to facilitate patient access to innovative drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Madrid Paredes
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jan-Willem Versteeg
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rick A Vreman
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lourens T Bloem
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Hogervorst MA, van Hattem CC, Sonke GS, Mantel-Teeuwisse AK, Goettsch WG, Bloem LT. Healthcare decision-making for tumour-agnostic therapies in Europe: lessons learned. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104031. [PMID: 38796096 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
The tumour-agnostic authorisations of larotrectinib and entrectinib shifted the paradigm for indication setting. European healthcare decision-makers agreed on their therapeutic potential but diverged primarily in identified uncertainties concerning basket trial designs and endpoints, prognostic value of neurotrophic tropomyosin receptor kinase (NTRK) gene fusions, and resistance mechanisms. In addition, assessments of relevant comparators, unmet medical needs (UMNs), and implementation of NTRK-testing strategies diverged. In particular, the tumour-specific reimbursement recommendations and guidelines do not reflect tumour-agnostic thinking. These differences indicate difficulties experienced in these assessments and provide valuable lessons for future disruptive therapies. As we discuss here, early multistakeholder dialogues concerning minimum evidence requirements and involving clinicians are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milou A Hogervorst
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Christine C van Hattem
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Gabe S Sonke
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Aukje K Mantel-Teeuwisse
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Wim G Goettsch
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; National Health Care Institute (ZIN), Diemen, the Netherlands
| | - Lourens T Bloem
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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Maksimova MV, van Thiel GJMW, Tromp Y, Lechner R, van Delden JJM, Bloem LT. Balancing ethical norms and duties for the introduction of new medicines through conditional marketing authorization: a research agenda. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1408553. [PMID: 39005652 PMCID: PMC11242744 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1408553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The European Medicines Agency's conditional marketing authorization (CMA) aims to expedite patient access to medicines for unmet medical needs by shifting a part of the drug development process post-authorization. We highlight ethical issues surrounding CMA, comprising (i) the complexity of defining unmet medical need; (ii) poor understanding of CMA and its impact on informed consent; (iii) hope versus unrealistic optimism; (iv) implications of prolonged post-authorization studies and potential patient harm; (v) rights and duties of patients surrounding participation in post-authorization studies; (vi) access to previously authorized CMA medicines; and (vii) the "benefit slippage" phenomenon, defined as the gradual shift of strict criteria to less strict criteria. We propose a comprehensive research agenda to address these ethical issues, and stress the need for multi-stakeholder engagement to ensure patient-centered use of CMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariia V. Maksimova
- Department of Bioethics and Health Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Ghislaine J. M. W. van Thiel
- Department of Bioethics and Health Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Yke Tromp
- Department of Bioethics and Health Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Rosan Lechner
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Johannes J. M. van Delden
- Department of Bioethics and Health Humanities, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Lourens T. Bloem
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Hemmrich E, McNeil S. Strategic aspects for the commercialization of nanomedicines. J Control Release 2024; 369:617-621. [PMID: 38588826 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The projected growth of the nanomedicine market mirrors the increase in commercial interest and investment in the field. Yet, amidst this optimism, research efforts have often been geared towards developing innovative materials, and less on bringing these innovations to market. In this article, we present a strategic approach of 'commercialization by design' to overcome various challenges related to commercialization. This approach shifts the focus from materials-centric development to one driven by market demands, evaluating nanomedicines considering factors like reimbursement restrictions and unmet medical needs, and aiming to generate robust evidence for regulatory authorities, Health Technology Assessment bodies and Payers alike. We highlight the linkages from the market backwards to the preclinical phase, where nanomedicines are tailored to specific clinician-identified requirements. Transitioning from a technology 'push' model to one with market 'pull' will enhance the commercial success of nanomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Hemmrich
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Scott McNeil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.
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Szymański P, Zannad F, Lüscher TF. Urgent need to define unmet medical needs in cardiovascular diseases. Eur Heart J 2024; 45:1384-1385. [PMID: 38339912 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehae041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Szymański
- Center for Postgraduate Medical Education, Marymoncka 99/103 01-813, Warsaw, Poland
- Clinical Cardiology Center, National Institute of Medicine MSWiA, Wołoska 137, 02-507 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Faiez Zannad
- Université de Lorraine, Centre d'Investigation Clinique Inserm, CHU Nancy, Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Thomas F Lüscher
- Heart Division, Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospital and National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, London, UK
- School of Cardiovascular Sciences, Cardiovascular Academic Group, King's College, London, UK
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Roberts NA, Esler R, Pearce A, Wyld D, Smith M, Woollett K, Mazariego C, Roberts MJ. Exploring Unmet Needs in Prostate Cancer Care: A Cross-sectional Descriptive Study. EUR UROL SUPPL 2024; 62:36-42. [PMID: 38585211 PMCID: PMC10998272 DOI: 10.1016/j.euros.2024.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and objective Prostate cancer, the most common cancer among men worldwide, has significant impact on quality of life. Supportive care needs for those affected by prostate cancer are not well understood. This study aims to describe patient-reported unmet needs and explore supportive care priorities of men treated for prostate cancer. Methods A cross-sectional survey was distributed to all men who had accessed prostate cancer services (including surgical, radiation, and medical oncology treatment modalities) at a tertiary hospital. The survey included qualitative questions exploring patient experience and a validated patient-reported outcome measure (Supportive Care Needs Survey Short Form 34). Clinical information was collected. Analyses included, descriptive statistics, multivariate logistic regression models and qualitative analyses using a framework method. Key findings and limitations A total of 162 participants provided survey data. Domains about information, self-management, and sexual function were the highest ranked items with unmet needs. A qualitative analysis also identified "relationships", "information", and "the value of hindsight" constructs. Participants who identified three or more unmet needs expressed treatment regret (odds ratio 5.92, 1.98-22.23, p = 0.01). Conclusions and clinical implications Understanding the unmet needs of patients may better inform supportive care interventions that address what is important to patients. Importantly, participants valued relationships. There may be opportunities to better meet the needs of patients by improving access to information and self-management resources, particularly around sexuality. Further research is warranted. Patient summary Prostate cancer and its treatment impacts are not well understood. Prioritisation of relationships and improving access to information and self-management resources are important. Further attention to prostate cancer supportive care in clinical practice is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha A. Roberts
- Centre for Clinical Research, Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- STARS Education and Research Alliance, Surgical Treatment and Rehabilitation Service (STARS), The University of Queensland and Metro North Health, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Rachel Esler
- Department of Urology, Cancer Care Services, Surgery and Peri-operative Services, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Adam Pearce
- Department of Urology, Cancer Care Services, Surgery and Peri-operative Services, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - David Wyld
- Centre for Clinical Research, Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Department of Urology, Cancer Care Services, Surgery and Peri-operative Services, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Michael Smith
- Department of Urology, Cancer Care Services, Surgery and Peri-operative Services, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, QLD, Australia
| | - Kaylene Woollett
- Department of Urology, Cancer Care Services, Surgery and Peri-operative Services, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Carolyn Mazariego
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- The Daffodil Centre, The University of Sydney, a joint venture with Cancer Council NSW, Kings Cross, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthew J. Roberts
- Centre for Clinical Research, Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Department of Urology, Cancer Care Services, Surgery and Peri-operative Services, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Li J, Wang Q, Zhou X. Health literacy, worry about unmet needs for medical care, and psychological well-being among older Chinese adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24 Suppl 1:202-207. [PMID: 38050461 DOI: 10.1111/ggi.14754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
AIM This study aims to examine the relationship between older adults' health literacy and their psychological well-being and the role of worry about future unmet needs for medical care in mediating this relationship. METHODS We adopted a sample of 965 older Chinese people aged 60+ (49.74% female) from the 2021 Chinese General Social Survey. A series of structural equation models (SEMs) were performed. Health literacy was measured by three items regarding older people's ability to understand medical professionals, ask them questions, and read medical instructions. A single-item question was adopted to measure participants' worry about unmet needs for future medical care. Psychological well-being was measured by three items regarding emotional problems and depressed or anxious mood in the past 4 weeks. RESULTS Worry about future unmet needs for medical care mediates the relationship between lack of health literacy and Chinese older people's psychological well-being. The indirect effect accounts for 22.3% of the total effect. The SEM model has a satisfactory model fit (goodness of fit index = 1.000, comparative fit index = 0.999, Tucker-Lewis index = 0.997, root mean square error of approximation = 0.009, standardized root mean square residual = 0.023, chi-square test = 50.96, P = 0.321). CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study underscore the importance of improving communication quality between healthcare providers and older adults. Clinical interventions that promote health literacy and address worries about unmet needs for medical services may benefit older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 202-207.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Li
- Department of Social Work, Faculty of Social Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, HKSAR, China
| | - Qi Wang
- School of Graduate Studies and Institute of Policy Studies, Lingnan University, Hong Kong, HKSAR, China
| | - Xiaochen Zhou
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, HKSAR, China
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Michaeli DT, Michaeli T, Albers S, Michaeli JC. Clinical benefit, development, innovation, trials, epidemiology, and price for cancer drugs and indications with multiple special FDA designations. J Natl Cancer Inst 2024; 116:216-229. [PMID: 37824202 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djad212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study analyzes the development, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval, benefits, innovation, trials, epidemiology, and price of cancer drugs with multiple special designations: orphan, fast track, accelerated approval, priority review, and breakthrough therapy. METHODS In total, 355 FDA-approved cancer drug indications with 841 special designations were identified (2012-2022). Trial, epidemiology, and price data were collected from FDA labels, the Global Burden of Disease study, and Medicare and Medicaid. The association between efficacy outcomes and indications' number of special designations were compared in meta-analyses. RESULTS Median development times were 7.3, 7.8, and 5.4 months (P = .027) for drugs with 0 to 1, 2 to 3, and 4 to 5 special designations, respectively. Multiple special designations were associated with higher biotechnological and clinical innovation. Median patient enrollment in trials were 615, 471, 398, 168, 104, and 120 (P < .001) for indications with 0 to 5 special designations. Drugs for rare diseases supported by open-label phase 1/2 trials of single-arm design were granted more special designations. Hazard ratios for overall survival (0.80 vs 0.73 vs 0.73 vs 0.69 vs 0.56 vs 0.52; P = .003) and progression-free survival (0.70 vs 0.61 vs 0.59 vs 0.44 vs 0.37 vs 0.67; P < .001) substantially declined while tumor response increased with more special designations. Mean monthly prices increased for drugs with 0 to 4 but not 5 special designations ($21 596 vs $14 753 vs $32 410 vs $41 240 vs $38 703 vs $19 184). CONCLUSIONS Multiple special designations are associated with faster clinical development and greater benefits for patients with unmet needs but also with nonrobust trial evidence and a tendency toward higher drug prices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Tobias Michaeli
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- TUM School of Management, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Michaeli
- Department of Personalized Oncology, University Hospital Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Division of Personalized Medical Oncology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Albers
- Department of Orthopaedics and Sport Orthopaedics, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Julia Caroline Michaeli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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Rejon-Parrilla JC, Espin J, Garner S, Kniazkov S, Epstein D. Pricing and reimbursement mechanisms for advanced therapy medicinal products in 20 countries. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1199500. [PMID: 38089054 PMCID: PMC10715052 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1199500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products are a type of therapies that, in some cases, hold great potential for patients without an effective current therapeutic approach but they also present multiple challenges to payers. While there are many theoretical papers on pricing and reimbursement (P&R) options, original empirical research is very scarce. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive international review of regulatory and P&R decisions taken for all ATMPs with centralized European marketing authorization in March 2022. Methods: A survey was distributed in July 2022 to representatives of 46 countries. Results: Responses were received from 20 countries out of 46 (43.5%). 14 countries reimbursed at least one ATMP. Six countries in this survey reimbursed no ATMPs. Conclusion: Access to ATMPs is uneven across the countries included in this study. This arises from regulatory differences, commercial decisions by marketing authorization holders, and the divergent assessment processes and criteria applied by payers. Moving towards greater equality of access will require cooperation between countries and stakeholders, for example, through the WHO Regional Office for Europe's Access to Novel Medicines Platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Carlos Rejon-Parrilla
- Health Technology Assessment Area (AETSA), Andalusian Public Foundation Progress and Health (FPS), Seville, Spain
| | - Jaime Espin
- Andalusian School of Public Health, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs, Granada, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Cátedra de Economía de la Salud y Dirección de Organizaciones Sanitarias (Esalud2), Granada, Spain
| | - Sarah Garner
- World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stanislav Kniazkov
- World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - David Epstein
- Department of Applied Economics, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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Michaeli DT, Michaeli T. Cancer Drug Prices in the United States: Efficacy, Innovation, Clinical Trial Evidence, and Epidemiology. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2023; 26:1590-1600. [PMID: 37516196 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2023.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rising cancer drug prices challenge patients and healthcare systems. Although prices are routinely assigned to original drug indications receiving US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval, the pricing of supplemental indication approvals remains uncertain. This study identifies and quantifies factors associated with cancer drug prices, distinctly analyzing original and supplemental indications. METHODS Clinical trial evidence and epidemiologic data supporting new indications' FDA approval (2003-2022) were collected from the Drugs@FDA database, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Global Burden of Disease study. Indication-specific monthly treatment costs were calculated for Medicare patients. The association between log-prices and collected variables were assessed in regression analyses. RESULTS We identified 145 drugs approved across 373 cancer indications. Drugs were priced at $24 444 per month on average (median = $16 013). For original indications, prices weakly correlated to improvements in overall survival (β = 0.28, P = .037) and progression-free survival (β = 0.16, P = .001). Original indications' prices were as follows: (1) negatively associated with disease incidence (β = -0.21, P < .001) and prevalence; (2) positively correlated with first-in-class drugs (26%, P = .057), gene and cell therapies (176%, P < .001), hematologic cancers (62%, P < .001), and severe diseases with substantial unmet needs (6% per disability-adjusted life-year, P < .001); and (3) negatively correlated to indications with randomized-controlled phase 3 trials. Prices were poorly associated with supplemental indications' efficacy, clinical evidence, and epidemiology. CONCLUSIONS Cancer drug prices are set based on the original indication's characteristics, thereby omitting the value of supplemental indications. Indication-specific pricing, coverage, and reimbursement policies considering each indication's safety, efficacy, innovativeness, and unmet needs are necessary to align a drug's value and price.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Tobias Michaeli
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany; Schumpeter School of Business and Economics, University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
| | - Thomas Michaeli
- Schumpeter School of Business and Economics, University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany; Department of Personalized Oncology, University Hospital Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany; Division of Personalized Medical Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany; DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Mannheim, Mannheim, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany
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14
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Yamazaki S, Izawa K, Matsushita M, Moriichi A, Kishida D, Yoshifuji H, Yamaji K, Nishikomori R, Mori M, Miyamae T. Promoting awareness of terminology related to unmet medical needs in context of rheumatic diseases in Japan: a systematic review for evaluating unmet medical needs. Rheumatol Int 2023; 43:2021-2030. [PMID: 37597057 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-023-05425-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
To optimize patient prognosis, patient needs, including unmet needs, should be adequately assessed. However, such needs are more challenging to report and, consequently, more likely to go unmet compared with the needs reported by physicians. We aimed to determine the appropriate direction of future research on unmet medical needs in rheumatic diseases in Japan by conducting a literature review. We searched PubMed and Web of Science using 23 terms linked to unmet medical needs for major rheumatic diseases in Japan. Further, we collected articles on health-related quality of life and investigated the scales used for assessment, as well as whether the terms "unmet needs" or "unmet medical needs" were used. We identified 949 papers on 10 diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, dermatomyositis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, adult-onset Still's disease, antiphospholipid syndrome, mixed connective tissue disease, Takayasu arteritis, Sjögren's syndrome, and Behçet's disease; 25 of the 949 papers were selected for full-text review. Fifteen articles on five diseases were related to health-related quality of life. The term "unmet needs" was used in only one article. Six out of 15 studies used the 36-item short form survey, whereas the scales used in other studies differed. The optimal treatment plan determined by a physician may not necessarily align with the best interests of the patient. In clinical research, cross sectional and standardized indicators of health-related quality of life should be employed along with highly discretionary questionnaires to assess and optimize resource allocation in healthcare and simultaneously achieve patient-desired outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susumu Yamazaki
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421, Japan.
| | - Kazushi Izawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masakazu Matsushita
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akinori Moriichi
- Division of Specific Pediatric Chronic Diseases, Research Institute, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Dai Kishida
- Department of Medicine (Neurology & Rheumatology), Shinshu University School of Medicine, Nagano, Japan
| | - Hajime Yoshifuji
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ken Yamaji
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryuta Nishikomori
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Kurume University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Masaaki Mori
- Department of Lifetime Clinical Immunology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takako Miyamae
- Pediatric Rheumatology, Institute of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Nagano, Japan
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15
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Rausche P, Rakotoarivelo RA, Rakotozandrindrainy R, Rakotomalala RS, Ratefiarisoa S, Rasamoelina T, Kutz JM, Jaeger A, Hoeppner Y, Lorenz E, May J, Puradiredja DI, Fusco D. Awareness and knowledge of female genital schistosomiasis in a population with high endemicity: a cross-sectional study in Madagascar. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1278974. [PMID: 37886060 PMCID: PMC10598593 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1278974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) is a neglected disease with long-term physical and psychosocial consequences, affecting approximately 50 million women worldwide and generally representing an unmet medical need on a global scale. FGS is the chronic manifestation of a persistent infection with Schistosoma haematobium. FGS services are not routinely offered in endemic settings with a small percentage of women at risk receiving adequate care. Madagascar has over 60% prevalence of FGS and no guidelines for the management of the disease. This study aimed to determine FGS knowledge among women and health care workers (HCWs) in a highly endemic area of Madagascar. Methods A convenience sampling strategy was used for this cross-sectional study. Descriptive statistics including proportions and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated, reporting socio-demographic characteristics of the population. Knowledge sources were evaluated descriptively. Binary Poisson regression with robust standard errors was performed; crude (CPR) and adjusted prevalence ratio (APR) with 95% CIs were calculated. Results A total of 783 participants were included in the study. Among women, 11.3% (n = 78) were aware of FGS while among the HCWs 53.8% (n = 50) were aware of FGS. The highest level of knowledge was observed among women in an urban setting [24%, (n = 31)] and among those with a university education/vocational training [23% (n = 13)]. A lower APR of FGS knowledge was observed in peri-urban [APR 0.25 (95% CI: 0.15; 0.45)] and rural [APR 0.37 (95% CI 0.22; 0.63)] settings in comparison to the urban setting. Most HCWs reported other HCWs [40% (n = 20)] while women mainly reported their family [32% (n = 25)] as being their main source of information in the 6 months prior to the survey. Discussion and conclusions Our study shows limited awareness and knowledge of FGS among population groups in the highly endemic Boeny region of Madagascar. With this study we contribute to identifying an important health gap in Madagascar, which relates to a disease that can silently affect millions of women worldwide. In alignment with the targets of the NTD roadmap, addressing schistosomiasis requires a paradigm shift for its control and management including a greater focus on chronic forms of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Rausche
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Hamburg-Borstel-Lübeck-Riems, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jean-Marc Kutz
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Hamburg-Borstel-Lübeck-Riems, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anna Jaeger
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Yannick Hoeppner
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Eva Lorenz
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Hamburg-Borstel-Lübeck-Riems, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen May
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Hamburg-Borstel-Lübeck-Riems, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Tropical Medicine I, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dewi Ismajani Puradiredja
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Fusco
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Hamburg-Borstel-Lübeck-Riems, Hamburg, Germany
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16
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Kowal P, Corso B, Anindya K, Andrade FCD, Giang TL, Guitierrez MTC, Pothisiri W, Quashie NT, Reina HAR, Rosenberg M, Towers A, Vicerra PMM, Minicuci N, Ng N, Byles J. Prevalence of unmet health care need in older adults in 83 countries: measuring progressing towards universal health coverage in the context of global population ageing. Popul Health Metr 2023; 21:15. [PMID: 37715182 PMCID: PMC10503154 DOI: 10.1186/s12963-023-00308-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Current measures for monitoring progress towards universal health coverage (UHC) do not adequately account for populations that do not have the same level of access to quality care services and/or financial protection to cover health expenses for when care is accessed. This gap in accounting for unmet health care needs may contribute to underutilization of needed services or widening inequalities. Asking people whether or not their needs for health care have been met, as part of a household survey, is a pragmatic way of capturing this information. This analysis examined responses to self-reported questions about unmet need asked as part of 17 health, social and economic surveys conducted between 2001 and 2019, representing 83 low-, middle- and high-income countries. Noting the large variation in questions and response categories, the results point to low levels (less than 2%) of unmet need reported in adults aged 60+ years in countries like Andorra, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Slovenia, Thailand and Viet Nam to rates of over 50% in Georgia, Haiti, Morocco, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe. While unique, these estimates are likely underestimates, and do not begin to address issues of poor quality of care as a barrier or contributing to unmet need in those who were able to access care. Monitoring progress towards UHC will need to incorporate estimates of unmet need if we are to reach universality and reduce health inequalities in older populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Kowal
- International Health Transitions, Canberra, Australia.
- Health Data Analytics Team, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia.
| | - Barbara Corso
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR), Padua, Italy
| | - Kanya Anindya
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Flavia C D Andrade
- School of Social Work, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana-Champaign, USA
| | - Thanh Long Giang
- Faculty of Economics, National Economics University, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | | | - Wiraporn Pothisiri
- College of Population Studies, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nekehia T Quashie
- Department of Health Studies, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, USA
| | | | | | - Andy Towers
- School of Health Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | | | - Nadia Minicuci
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR), Padua, Italy
| | - Nawi Ng
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Gothenberg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Julie Byles
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
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17
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Davies B. Medical need and health need. CLINICAL ETHICS 2023; 18:287-291. [PMID: 37621986 PMCID: PMC10444630 DOI: 10.1177/14777509231173561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
I introduce a distinction between health need and medical need, and raise several questions about their interaction. Health needs are needs that relate directly to our health condition. Medical needs are needs which bear some relation to medical institutions or processes. I suggest that the question of whether medical insurance or public care should cover medical needs, health needs, or only needs which fit both categories is a political question that cannot be resolved definitionally. I also argue against an overly strict definition of medical need on the grounds that this presupposes, wrongly, that medical intervention should always be a last resort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Davies
- Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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18
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Fan R, Wang L, Bu X, Wang W, Zhu J. Unmet supportive care needs of breast cancer survivors: a systematic scoping review. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:587. [PMID: 37365504 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11087-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women worldwide. Though improved treatments and prolonged overall survival, breast cancer survivors (BCSs) persistently suffer from various unmet supportive care needs (USCNs) throughout the disease. This scoping review aims to synthesize current literature regarding USCNs among BCSs. METHODS This study followed a scoping review framework. Articles were retrieved from Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Medline from inception through June 2023, as well as reference lists of relevant literature. Peer-reviewed journal articles were included if USCNs among BCSs were reported. Inclusion/exclusion criteria were adopted to screen articles' titles and abstracts as well as to entirely assess any potentially pertinent records by two independent researchers. Methodological quality was independently appraised following Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools. Content analytic approach and meta-analysis were performed for qualitative and quantitative studies respectively. Results were reported according to the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews. RESULTS A total of 10,574 records were retrieved and 77 studies were included finally. The overall risk of bias was low to moderate. The self-made questionnaire was the most used instrument, followed by The Short-form Supportive Care Needs Survey questionnaire (SCNS-SF34). A total of 16 domains of USCNs were finally identified. Social support (74%), daily activity (54%), sexual/intimacy (52%), fear of cancer recurrence/ spreading (50%), and information support (45%) were the top unmet supportive care needs. Information needs and psychological/emotional needs appeared most frequently. The USCNs was found to be significantly associated with demographic factors, disease factors, and psychological factors. CONCLUSION BCSs are experiencing a large number of USCNs in fearing of cancer recurrence, daily activity, sexual/intimacy, psychology and information, with proportions ranging from 45% to 74%. Substantial heterogeneity in study populations and assessment tools was observed. There is a need for further research to identify a standard evaluation tool targeted to USCNs on BCSs. Effective interventions based on guidelines should be formulated and conducted to decrease USCNs among BCSs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongrong Fan
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lili Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaofan Bu
- The School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Wenxiu Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jing Zhu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Lane, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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19
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Drummond M, Ciani O, Fornaro G, Jommi C, Dietrich ES, Espin J, Mossman J, de Pouvourville G. How are health technology assessment bodies responding to the assessment challenges posed by cell and gene therapy? BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:484. [PMID: 37179322 PMCID: PMC10182681 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09494-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aims of this research were to provide a better understanding of the specific evidence needs for assessment of clinical and cost-effectiveness of cell and gene therapies, and to explore the extent that the relevant categories of evidence are considered in health technology assessment (HTA) processes. METHODS A targeted literature review was conducted to identify the specific categories of evidence relevant to the assessment of these therapies. Forty-six HTA reports for 9 products in 10 cell and gene therapy indications across 8 jurisdictions were analysed to determine the extent to which various items of evidence were considered. RESULTS The items to which the HTA bodies reacted positively were: treatment was for a rare disease or serious condition, lack of alternative therapies, evidence indicating substantial health gains, and when alternative payment models could be agreed. The items to which they reacted negatively were: use of unvalidated surrogate endpoints, single arm trials without an adequately matched alternative therapy, inadequate reporting of adverse consequences and risks, short length of follow-up in clinical trials, extrapolating to long-term outcomes, and uncertainty around the economic estimates. CONCLUSIONS The consideration by HTA bodies of evidence relating to the particular features of cell and gene therapies is variable. Several suggestions are made for addressing the assessment challenges posed by these therapies. Jurisdictions conducting HTAs of these therapies can consider whether these suggestions could be incorporated within their existing approach through strengthening deliberative decision-making or performing additional analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Drummond
- Centre for Health Economics, University of York, York, UK.
- CERGAS, SDA Bocconi School of Management, Milan, Italy.
| | - Oriana Ciani
- CERGAS, SDA Bocconi School of Management, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Claudio Jommi
- CERGAS, SDA Bocconi School of Management, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Jaime Espin
- Andalusian School of Public Health, Andalusia, Spain
| | - Jean Mossman
- Patient Representative and Visiting Senior Research Associate in the Medical Technology Research Group, LSE Health, London School of Economics, London, UK
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20
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Beierle J, Algorri M, Cortés M, Cauchon NS, Lennard A, Kirwan JP, Oghamian S, Abernathy MJ. Structured content and data management-enhancing acceleration in drug development through efficiency in data exchange. AAPS OPEN 2023; 9:11. [PMID: 37193559 PMCID: PMC10164450 DOI: 10.1186/s41120-023-00077-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Innovation in pharmaceutical therapeutics is critical for the treatment of serious diseases with unmet medical need. To accelerate the approval of these innovative treatments, regulatory agencies throughout the world are increasingly adopting the use of expedited pathways and collaborative regulatory reviews. These pathways are primarily driven by promising clinical results but become challenging for Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) information in regulatory submissions. Condensed and shifting timelines present constraints that require new approaches to the management of regulatory filings. This article emphasizes technological advances that have the potential to tackle the underlying inefficiencies in the regulatory filing eco-system. Structured content and data management (SCDM) is highlighted as a foundation for technologies that can ease the burden on both sponsors and regulators by streamlining data usage in regulatory submissions. Re-mapping of information technology infrastructure will improve the usability of data by moving away from document-based filings towards electronic data libraries. Although the inefficiencies of the current regulatory filing eco-system are more evident for products that are filed using expedited pathways, it is envisioned that the more widespread adoption of SCDM, across standard filing and review processes, will improve overall efficiency and speed in the compilation and review of regulatory submissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill Beierle
- Department of Global Regulatory Affairs and Strategy – CMC, Amgen Inc, CA 91320 Thousand Oaks, USA
| | - Marquerita Algorri
- Department of Global Regulatory Affairs and Strategy – CMC, Amgen Inc, CA 91320 Thousand Oaks, USA
| | - Marisol Cortés
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Nina S. Cauchon
- Department of Global Regulatory Affairs and Strategy – CMC, Amgen Inc, CA 91320 Thousand Oaks, USA
| | - Andrew Lennard
- Department of Global Regulatory Affairs and Strategy – CMC, Amgen Inc, CA 91320 Thousand Oaks, USA
| | - J. Paul Kirwan
- Department of Global Regulatory Affairs and Strategy – CMC, Amgen Inc, CA 91320 Thousand Oaks, USA
| | - Shirley Oghamian
- Department of Global Regulatory Affairs and Strategy – CMC, Amgen Inc, CA 91320 Thousand Oaks, USA
| | - Michael J. Abernathy
- Department of Global Regulatory Affairs and Strategy – CMC, Amgen Inc, CA 91320 Thousand Oaks, USA
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21
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Kållberg C, Mathiesen L, Gopinathan U, Salvesen Blix H. The role of drug regulatory authorities and health technology assessment agencies in shaping incentives for antibiotic R&D: a qualitative study. J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 16:53. [PMID: 36973761 PMCID: PMC10045501 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-023-00556-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few antibiotics have entered the market in recent years despite the need for new treatment options. Some of the challenges of bringing new antibiotics to market are linked to the marketing authorization and health technology assessment (HTA) processes. Research shows great variation in geographic availability of new antibiotics, suggesting that market introduction of new antibiotics is unpredictable. We aimed to investigate regulatory authorities' and HTA agencies' role in developing non-financial incentives to stimulate antibiotic research and development (R&D). METHODS We conducted individual, semi-structured, stakeholder interviews. Participants were recruited from regulatory authorities (EMA and FDA) and HTA agencies in Europe. Participants had to be experienced with assessment of antibiotics. The data were analyzed using a deductive and inductive approach to develop codes and identify key themes. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis including the constant comparison method to define concepts, and rival thinking to identify alternative explanations. RESULTS We found that (1) interpretation of key concepts guiding the understanding of what type of antibiotics are needed vary (2) lack of a shared approach on how to deal with limited clinical data in the marketing authorization and HTA processes is causing barriers to getting new antibiotics to market (3) necessary adaptations to the marketing authorization process causes uncertainties that transmit to other key stakeholders involved in delivering antibiotics to patients. CONCLUSIONS A shared understanding of limited clinical data and how to deal with this issue is needed amongst stakeholders involved in antibiotic R&D, marketing authorization, and market introduction to ensure antibiotics reach the market before resistance levels are out of control. Regulatory authorities and HTA agencies could play an active role in aligning the view of what constitutes an unmet medical need, and direct new economic models towards stimulating greater diversity in the antibiotic armamentarium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Kållberg
- Institute of Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Forskningsveien 3A, 0373, Oslo, Norway.
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Lovisenberggata 8, 0456, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Liv Mathiesen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Sem Sælands Vei 3, 0371, Oslo, Norway
| | - Unni Gopinathan
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Lovisenberggata 8, 0456, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hege Salvesen Blix
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Lovisenberggata 8, 0456, Oslo, Norway
- School of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Sem Sælands Vei 3, 0371, Oslo, Norway
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22
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Synnott PG, Voehler D, Enright DE, Kowal S, Ollendorf DA. The Value of New: Consideration of Product Novelty in Health Technology Assessments of Pharmaceuticals. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2023; 21:305-314. [PMID: 36529826 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-022-00779-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Efforts to understand how treatments affect patients and society have broadened the criteria that health technology assessment (HTA) organizations apply to value assessments. We examined whether HTA agencies in eight countries consider treatment novelty in methods and deliberations. METHODS We defined a novel pharmaceutical product to be one that offers a new approach to treatment (e.g., new mechanism of action), addresses an unmet need (e.g., targets a rare condition without effective treatments), or has a broader impact beyond what is typically measured in an HTA. We reviewed peer-reviewed publications and technical guidance materials from HTA organizations in Australia, Canada, England, France, The Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the United States (US). In addition, we explored how HTA organizations integrated novelty considerations into deliberations and recommendations related to two newer therapies-voretigene neparvovec for an inherited retinal disorder and ocrelizumab for multiple sclerosis. RESULTS None of the HTA organizations acknowledge treatment novelty as an explicit value criterion in their assessments of pharmaceutical products. However, drugs that have novel characteristics are given special consideration, particularly when they address an unmet need. Several organizations document a willingness to expend more resources and accept greater evidence uncertainty for such treatments. Qualitative deliberations about the additional unquantified potential benefits of treatment may also influence HTA recommendations. CONCLUSION Major HTA organizations do not recognize novelty as an explicit value criterion, although drugs with novel characteristics may receive special consideration. There is an opportunity for organizations to codify their approach to evaluating novelty in value assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia G Synnott
- Center for the Evaluation of Value and Risk in Health, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington Street, #063, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
| | - Dominic Voehler
- Center for the Evaluation of Value and Risk in Health, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington Street, #063, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Daniel E Enright
- Center for the Evaluation of Value and Risk in Health, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington Street, #063, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Stacey Kowal
- Genentech, Inc, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA, 94080, USA
| | - Daniel A Ollendorf
- Center for the Evaluation of Value and Risk in Health, Tufts Medical Center, 800 Washington Street, #063, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
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Maldonado AQ, Bradbrook K, Sjöholm K, Kjellman C, Lee J, Stewart D. The real unmet need: A multifactorial approach for identifying sensitized kidney candidates with low access to transplant. Clin Transplant 2023; 37:e14946. [PMID: 36841966 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.14946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND At the start of 2020, the kidney waiting list consisted of 2526 candidates with a calculated panel reactive antibody (CPRA) of 99.9% or greater, a cohort demonstrated in published research to have meaningfully lower than average access to transplantation even under the revised kidney allocation system (KAS). METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of US kidney registrations using data from the OPTN [Reference (https://optn.transplant.hrsa.gov/data/about-data/)]. The period-prevalent study cohort consisted of US kidney-alone registrations who waited at least 1 day between April 1, 2016, when HLA DQ-Alpha and DP-Beta unacceptable antigen data became available in OPTN data collection, to December 31, 2019. Poisson rate regression was used to model deceased donor kidney transplant rates per active year waiting and using an offset term to account for differential at-risk periods. Median time to transplant was estimated for each IRR group using the Kaplan-Meier method. Sensitivity analyses were included to address geographic variation in supply-to-demand ratios and differences in dialysis time or waiting time. RESULTS In this study, we found 1597 additional sensitized (CPRA 50-<99.9%) candidates with meaningfully lower than average access to transplant when simultaneously taking into account CPRA and other factors. In combination with CPRA, candidate blood type, Estimated Post-Transplant Survival Score (EPTS), and presence of other antibody specificities beyond those in the current, 5-locus CPRA were found to influence the likelihood of transplant. CONCLUSION In total, this suggests approximately 4100 sensitized candidates are on the waiting list who represent a community of disadvantaged patients who may benefit from progressive therapies and interventions to facilitate incompatible transplantation. Though associated with higher risks, such interventions may nevertheless be more attractive than remaining on dialysis with the associated accumulation of mortality risk over time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Darren Stewart
- United Network for Organ Sharing, Richmond, Virginia, USA.,NYU Langone Transplant Institute, New York, USA
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Ahn J, Lee D, Choi J, Kang M. Who is the most precarious among the nonstandard workers? A comparative study of unmet medical needs among standard workers and subtypes of nonstandard workers. J Occup Health 2023; 65:e12414. [PMID: 37354492 PMCID: PMC10290531 DOI: 10.1002/1348-9585.12414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Nonstandard workers might have a relatively higher risk of unmet medical needs than standard workers. This study subdivided nonstandard workers to investigate the effects of nonstandard employment on unmet medical needs. METHODS We used the Korea Health Panel 2011-2018 data. The independent variable, employment contract, was defined using the nonstandard form described by the ILO: Temporary workers, Part-time workers, and Temporary agent workers. The analytical method used in this study was a panel logit model that accounted for repeated measured participants. By controlling for time-invariant individual-fixed effects, we investigate the relationship between subdivided nonstandard work and the risk of unmet medical needs with reference to standard work. RESULTS The results of the analysis clearly showed that compared with standard workers, temporary agency workers had a significantly higher risk of unmet medical needs (Odds ratio = 1.182, 95% CI = 1.016-1.374). The main cause of this phenomenon was economic reasons in this group. CONCLUSIONS This study found that temporary agency workers in the general Korean population have a significantly higher risk of unmet healthcare needs. The result of this study implies that financial hardship might be a fundamental health hazard among workers with nonstandard employment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joonho Ahn
- Department of Occupational and Environmental MedicineKangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of MedicineSeoulSouth Korea
| | - Dong‐Wook Lee
- Department of Occupational and Environmental MedicineInha University Hospital, Inha UniversityIncheonRepublic of Korea
| | - Jaesung Choi
- Department of Global EconomicsSungkyunkwan UniversitySeoulRepublic of Korea
| | - Mo‐Yeol Kang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental MedicineSeoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of KoreaSeoulRepublic of Korea
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Burns JS. The Evolving Landscape of Potency Assays. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1420:165-189. [PMID: 37258790 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-30040-0_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
There is a "goldilocks" aspect to potency assays. On the one hand, a comprehensive evaluation of the cell product with detailed quantitative measurement of the critical quality attribute/s of the desired biological activity is required. On the other hand, the potency assay benefits from simplification and lean approaches that avoid unnecessary complication and enhance robustness, to provide a reproducible and scalable product. There is a need to balance insightful knowledge of complex biological healing processes with straightforward manufacture of an advanced therapeutic medicinal product (ATMP) that can be administered in a trustworthy cost-effective manner. While earlier chapters within this book have highlighted numerous challenges facing the potency assay conundrum, this chapter offers a forward-looking perspective regarding the many recent advances concerning acellular products, cryopreservation, induced MSC, cell priming, nanotechnology, 3D culture, regulatory guidelines and evolving institutional roles, that are likely to facilitate potency assay development in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge S Burns
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
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Jommi C, Meregaglia M, Pinto C. Il bisogno insoddisfatto: definizioni, evidenze di letteratura e implicazioni per l’HTA. GLOBAL & REGIONAL HEALTH TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT 2023; 10:70-78. [PMID: 37811344 PMCID: PMC10551671 DOI: 10.33393/grhta.2023.2624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The present paper illustrates the definition of unmet need provided by the peer-reviewed literature and the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) authorities across Europe in the assessment and appraisal process and within the early access schemes for medicines. The analysis relied on a descriptive review of the peer-reviewed literature and HTA documents on the definition of need (disease severity) and the way it is satisfied (existence and validity of alternatives). HTA agencies were found using (i) a narrow definition of need, focused on the clinical impact and the impact on health-related quality of life of the disease and (ii) a broad definition of comparators, including treatments used off-label in the clinical practice. Most of the contributions of the literature advocated for a broader definition of need, including additional dimensions (for example, the socio-economic impact of the disease) and the effects of existing treatments beyond their risk-benefit profile (for example, acceptability to patients). On the one hand, these contributions should be considered by HTA agencies, considering its multi-disciplinary and multi-stakeholder nature. On the other one, the explicit inclusion of the unmet need domains, at present disregarded, should depend on the decisions taken on the ground of the assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Jommi
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara - Italy
| | - Michela Meregaglia
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara - Italy
- Cergas, SDA Bocconi School of Management, Università Bocconi - Italy
| | - Carmine Pinto
- Oncologia Medica, Comprehensive Cancer Centre, AUSL-IRCCS Arcispedale di Reggio Emilia - Italy
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Guntinas-Lichius O, Deitmer T, Löhler J, Bujok O. [Unmet medical need in otorhinolaryngology: A challenge for otorhinolaryngologists and head and neck surgeons]. Laryngorhinootologie 2022; 101:950-960. [PMID: 36257336 DOI: 10.1055/a-1947-3108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Otorhinolaryngologists and head and neck surgeons are predestined to scientifically analyze and prioritize the medical needs in ENT medicine under the umbrella of the German Society of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery (DGHNO-KHC). This medical need assessment is important for targeting research and development of medical innovations to improve ENT patients' care with these needs and to trigger respective research and innovation funding programs at an early stage. METHODS This is to recommend that the DGHNO-KHC and its working groups and task forces in their specialty disciplines address the issue. The goal is a comprehensive medical need assessment for the fields of otolaryngology as well as head and neck surgery. The parameterization of medical needs is based on the unmet medical need (UMN) concept. Criteria for prioritization should follow the method of multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA). RECOMMENDATION The working groups of the DGHNO-KHC familiarize themselves with the concept of UMN. Subsequently, suggestions on ENT diseases with UMN in diagnostics and therapy will be collected considering the medical evidence. The suggestions are evaluated in a standardized way according to MCDA and a ranking is established. The results will be published and used to make research funding institutions aware of UMN in otorhinolaryngology, head and neck surgery. DISCUSSION The work will contribute to the further development of the UMN concept and will also be able to provide a basis to investigate the evidence of the concept to define the UMN. Through this work, the DGHNO-KHC will be perceived as an important scientific player for the development of need-driven medical innovations in Germany.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orlando Guntinas-Lichius
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Hals-, Nasen-, Ohrenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena.,Deutsche Gesellschaft für HNO-Heilkunde, Kopf- und Hals-Chirurgie, Bonn
| | - Thomas Deitmer
- Deutsche Gesellschaft für HNO-Heilkunde, Kopf- und Hals-Chirurgie, Bonn
| | - Jan Löhler
- Wissenschaftliches Institut für angewandte HNO-Heilkunde (WIAHNO), Bad Bramstedt
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Bhattacharya I, Ahmed MA. Think Rare, Think Inside and Out: Simple Question‐Based Approach to Complex Rare Disease Drug Development. J Clin Pharmacol 2022; 62 Suppl 2:S6-S11. [DOI: 10.1002/jcph.2173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Indranil Bhattacharya
- Quantitative Clinical PharmacologyTakeda Development Center Americas, Inc. Cambridge Massachusetts USA
| | - Mariam A. Ahmed
- Quantitative Clinical PharmacologyTakeda Development Center Americas, Inc. Cambridge Massachusetts USA
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Atkins MB, Abu-Sbeih H, Ascierto PA, Bishop MR, Chen DS, Dhodapkar M, Emens LA, Ernstoff MS, Ferris RL, Greten TF, Gulley JL, Herbst RS, Humphrey RW, Larkin J, Margolin KA, Mazzarella L, Ramalingam SS, Regan MM, Rini BI, Sznol M. Maximizing the value of phase III trials in immuno-oncology: A checklist from the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC). J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2022-005413. [PMID: 36175037 PMCID: PMC9528604 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-005413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The broad activity of agents blocking the programmed cell death protein 1 and its ligand (the PD-(L)1 axis) revolutionized oncology, offering long-term benefit to patients and even curative responses for tumors that were once associated with dismal prognosis. However, only a minority of patients experience durable clinical benefit with immune checkpoint inhibitor monotherapy in most disease settings. Spurred by preclinical and correlative studies to understand mechanisms of non-response to the PD-(L)1 antagonists and by combination studies in animal tumor models, many drug development programs were designed to combine anti-PD-(L)1 with a variety of approved and investigational chemotherapies, tumor-targeted therapies, antiangiogenic therapies, and other immunotherapies. Several immunotherapy combinations improved survival outcomes in a variety of indications including melanoma, lung, kidney, and liver cancer, among others. This immunotherapy renaissance, however, has led to many combinations being advanced to late-stage development without definitive predictive biomarkers, limited phase I and phase II data, or clinical trial designs that are not optimized for demonstrating the unique attributes of immune-related antitumor activity-for example, landmark progression-free survival and overall survival. The decision to activate a study at an individual site is investigator-driven, and generalized frameworks to evaluate the potential for phase III trials in immuno-oncology to yield positive data, particularly to increase the number of curative responses or otherwise advance the field have thus far been lacking. To assist in evaluating the potential value to patients and the immunotherapy field of phase III trials, the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) has developed a checklist for investigators, described in this manuscript. Although the checklist focuses on anti-PD-(L)1-based combinations, it may be applied to any regimen in which immune modulation is an important component of the antitumor effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B Atkins
- Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | | | - Paolo A Ascierto
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori IRCCS Fondazione "G Pascale", Napoli, Italy
| | - Michael R Bishop
- The David and Etta Jonas Center for Cellular Therapy, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Daniel S Chen
- Engenuity Life Sciences, Burlingame, California, USA
| | - Madhav Dhodapkar
- Center for Cancer Immunology, Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Leisha A Emens
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Marc S Ernstoff
- DCTD/DTP-IOB, ImmunoOncology Branch, NCI, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Tim F Greten
- Gastrointestinal Malignancies Section, National Cancer Institue CCR Liver Program, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - James L Gulley
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | | | - Kim A Margolin
- St. John's Cancer Institute, Santa Monica, California, USA
| | - Luca Mazzarella
- Experimental Oncology, New Drug Development, European Instititue of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Meredith M Regan
- Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Mario Sznol
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Michaeli DT, Mills M, Kanavos P. Value and Price of Multi-indication Cancer Drugs in the USA, Germany, France, England, Canada, Australia, and Scotland. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2022; 20:757-768. [PMID: 35821360 PMCID: PMC9385843 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-022-00737-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Oncology drugs are often approved for multiple indications, for which their clinical benefit varies. Aligning a single price to this differing value remains a challenge. This study examines the clinical and economic value, price, and reimbursement of multi-indication cancer drugs across seven countries, representing different approaches to value assessment, pricing, and coverage decisions: the USA, Germany, France, England, Canada, Australia, and Scotland. METHODS Twenty-five multi-indication cancer drugs across 100 indications were identified with US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval between 2009 and 2019. For each indication data on Health Technology Assessment (HTA) recommendations, disease prevalence, and drug prices were obtained. Quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained, disease prevalence, list prices, and HTA outcomes were then compared across indications and regions. RESULTS First approved indications provide a higher clinical benefit whilst targeting a smaller patient group than indication extensions. Quality-adjusted life year gains were higher for first (0.99, 95% CI 0.05-3.25) compared to second (0.51, 95% CI 0.02-1.63, p < 0.001) and third (0.58, 95% CI 0.05-2.07, p < 0.01) approved indications. Disease prevalence per 100,000 inhabitants was 20.7 (95% CI 0.2-63.3) for first compared to 27.1 (95% CI 1.5-109.6, p = 0.907) for second and 128.3 (95% CI 3.1-720.1, p < 0.001) for third approved indications. With each approved indication drug prices declined in Germany and France, remained constant in the UK, Canada, and Australia, whilst they increased in the USA. Negative HTA outcomes, clinical restrictions, and managed entry agreements (MEAs) were more frequently observed for indication extensions. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that indication development is prioritised according to clinical value and disease prevalence. Countries employ different mechanisms to account for each indication's differential benefit, e.g., weighted-average prices (Germany, France, Australia), differential discounts (England, Scotland), clinical restrictions, and MEAs (England, Scotland, Australia, Canada). Value-based indication-specific pricing can help to align the benefit and price for multi-indication cancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Tobias Michaeli
- Fifth Department of Medicine, University Hospital Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.
- Department of Personalized Oncology, University Hospital Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.
- Department of Health Policy and Medical Technology Research Group LSE Health, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK.
| | - Mackenzie Mills
- Department of Health Policy and Medical Technology Research Group LSE Health, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Panos Kanavos
- Department of Health Policy and Medical Technology Research Group LSE Health, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK.
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van der Zee IT, Vreman RA, Liberti L, Garza MA. Regulatory reliance pathways during health emergencies: enabling timely authorizations for COVID-19 vaccines in Latin America. Rev Panam Salud Publica 2022; 46:e115. [PMID: 36060200 PMCID: PMC9426952 DOI: 10.26633/rpsp.2022.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives. To map the timing and nature of regulatory reliance pathways used to authorize COVID-19 vaccines in Latin America. Methods. An observational study was conducted assessing the characteristics of all COVID-19 vaccine authorizations in Latin America. For every authorization it was determined whether reliance was used in the authorization process. Subgroups of reference national regulatory authorities (NRAs) and non-reference NRAs were compared. Results. 56 authorizations of 10 different COVID-19 vaccines were identified in 18 countries, of which 25 (44.6%) used reliance and 12 (21.4%) did not. For the remaining 19 (33.0%) it was not possible to determine whether reliance was used. Reference agencies used reliance less often (40% of authorizations with a known pathway) compared to non-reference agencies (100%). The median review time was just 15 days and does not meaningfully differ between reliance and non-reliance authorizations. Conclusions. This study demonstrated that for these vaccines, despite reliance pathways being associated with numerous rapid authorizations, independent authorization review times were not considerably longer than reliance reviews; reliance pathways were not a prerequisite for rapid authorization. Nevertheless, reliance pathways provided rapid authorizations in response to the COVID-19 emergency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivar T. van der Zee
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rick A. Vreman
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lawrence Liberti
- Temple University School of Pharmacy, Philadelphia, United States of America
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Towards Better Pharmaceutical Provision in Europe—Who Decides the Future? Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10081594. [PMID: 36011250 PMCID: PMC9408332 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10081594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Significant progress has been achieved in human health in the European Union in recent years. New medicines, vaccines, and treatments have been developed to tackle some of the leading causes of disease and life-threatening illnesses. It is clear that investment in research and development (R&D) for innovative medicines and treatments is essential for making progress in preventing and treating diseases. Ahead of the legislative process, which should begin by the end of 2022, discussions focus on how Europe can best promote the huge potential benefits of new science and technology within the regulatory framework. The challenges in European healthcare were spelled out by the panellists at the roundtable organised by European Alliance for Personalised Medicine (EAPM). Outcomes from panellists’ discussions have been summarized and re-arranged in this paper under five headings: innovation, unmet medical need, access, security of supply, adapting to progress, and efficiency. Some of the conclusions that emerged from the panel are a call for a better overall holistic vision of the future of pharmaceuticals and health in Europe and a collaborative effort among all stakeholders, seeing the delivery of medicines as part of a broader picture of healthcare.
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Meeting the Need for a Discussion of Unmet Medical Need. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10081578. [PMID: 36011235 PMCID: PMC9408346 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10081578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
As Europe and the world continue to battle against COVID, the customary complacency of society over future threats is clearly on display. Just 30 months ago, such a massive disruption to global lives, livelihoods and quality of life seemed unimaginable. Some remedial European Union action is now emerging, and more is proposed, including in relation to tackling “unmet medical need” (UMN). This initiative—directing attention to the future of treating disease and contemplating incentives to stimulate research and development—is welcome in principle. But the current approach being considered by EU officials merits further discussion, because it may prove counter-productive, impeding rather than promoting innovation. This paper aims to feed into these ongoing policy discussions, and rather than presenting research in the classical sense, it discusses the key elements from a multistakeholder perspective. Its central concern is over the risk that the envisaged support will fail to generate valuable new treatments if the legislation is phrased in a rigidly linear manner that does not reflect the serpentine realities of the innovation process, or if the definition placed on unmet medical need is too restrictive. It cautions that such an approach presumes that “unmet need” can be precisely and comprehensively defined in advance on the basis of the past. It cautions that such an approach can reinforce the comfortable delusion that the future is totally predictable—the delusion that left the world as easy prey to COVID. Instead, the paper urges reflection on how the legislation that will shortly enter the pipeline can be phrased so as to allow for the flourishing of a culture capable of rapid adaptation to the unexpected.
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Wang T, McAuslane N, Goettsch WG, Leufkens HGM, De Bruin ML. Challenges and Opportunities for Companies to Build HTA/Payer Perspectives Into Drug Development Through the Use of a Dynamic Target Product Profile. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:948161. [PMID: 35924050 PMCID: PMC9340272 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.948161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The target product profile (TPP) outlines the desired profile of a target product aimed at a particular disease and is used by companies to plan clinical development. Considering the increasing importance of health technology assessment (HTA) in informing reimbursement decisions, a robust TPP needs to be built to address HTA needs, to guide an integrated evidence generation plan that will support HTA submissions. This study assessed current practices and experiences of companies in building HTA considerations into TPP development. Methods: An opinion survey was designed and conducted in 2019, as a cross-sectional questionnaire consisting of multiple-choice questions. The questionnaire provided a qualitative assessment of companies’ strategies and experiences in building HTA considerations into the TPP. Eligible survey participants were the senior management of Global HTA/Market Access Departments at 18 top international pharmaceutical companies. Results: 11 companies responded to the survey. All companies included HTA requirements in TPP development, but the timing and process varied. The key focus of HTA input related to health problems and treatment pathways, clinical efficacy/effectiveness, and safety. Variance of HTA methods and different value frameworks were identified as a challenge for development plans. Stakeholder engagement, such as HTA scientific advice, was used to pressure test the TPP. Conclusion: This research provides insight into current practice and potential opportunities for value-based drug development. It demonstrates the evolution of the TPP to encompass HTA requirements and suggests that the TPP could have a role as an iterative communication tool for use with HTA agencies to enhance an integrated evidence generation plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Wang
- Centre for Innovation in Regulatory Science (CIRS), London, United Kingdom
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Ting Wang,
| | - Neil McAuslane
- Centre for Innovation in Regulatory Science (CIRS), London, United Kingdom
| | - Wim G. Goettsch
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
- National Health Care Institute, Diemen, Netherlands
| | - Hubert G. M. Leufkens
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Marie L. De Bruin
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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McPhail M, Weiss E, Bubela T. Conditional Drug Approval as a Path to Market for Oncology Drugs in Canada: Challenges and Recommendations for Assessing Eligibility and Regulatory Responsiveness. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 8:818647. [PMID: 35186979 PMCID: PMC8853442 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.818647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
International drug regulators use conditional drug approval mechanisms to facilitate faster patient access to drugs based on a lower evidentiary standard typically required of drug approvals. Faster and earlier access is justified by limiting eligibility to drugs intended for serious and life-threatening diseases and by requiring post-market evidence collection to confirm clinical benefit. One such mechanism in Canada, the Notice of Compliance with Conditions (NOC/c) policy, was introduced in 1998. Today, most of the drugs approved under the NOC/c policy are for oncology indications. We analyze oncology drugs approvals under the NOC/c policy to inform discussions of two tradeoffs applied to conditional drug approvals, eligibility criteria and post-market evidence. Our analysis informs recommendations for Canada's proposed regulatory reforms approach to conditional approvals pathways. Our analysis demonstrates that under the current policy, eligibility criteria are insufficiently defined, resulting in their inconsistent application by Health Canada. Regulatory responsiveness to post-market evidence from post-market clinical trial and foreign jurisdiction regulatory decisions is slow and insufficient. In the absence of sufficient regulatory responsiveness, physicians and patients must make clinical decisions without the benefit of the best available evidence. Together, our analysis of the two core tradeoffs in Canada's conditional drug approval provides insight to inform the further development of Canada's proposed agile regulatory approach to drugs and devices that will expand the use of terms and conditions.
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Gorbenko O, Cavillon P, Giles RH, Kolarova T, Marks M, Cardone A, Bagga S, Nolan C. Co-creating with patients an impact framework across the medicine's life cycle: a qualitative study exploring patients' experiences of involvement in and perceptions of impact measures. RESEARCH INVOLVEMENT AND ENGAGEMENT 2022; 8:1. [PMID: 35109927 PMCID: PMC8809633 DOI: 10.1186/s40900-022-00334-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The biopharmaceutical industry is challenged with efficiently delivering medicines that patients truly value. This can be addressed by engaging patients and caregivers throughout a medicine's life cycle, ensuring that products meet the needs and expectations of those who take them. While isolated best practice examples of patient engagement exist, they remain relatively ad hoc and not fully embedded within Research & Development (R&D) practices. To encourage more patient engagement, the 'impact' of patient engagement projects (PEP) must be objectively measured and demonstrated. Some frameworks have been proposed; however, there is no evidence of widespread adoption, nor have patients' perspectives been robustly explored. The objective of this qualitative study was therefore to understand patients' perspectives of impact measurement that can be systematically applied within a biopharmaceutical company. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 patient organisation (PO) representatives exploring their experiences of engagement and reflections on 23 candidate patient engagement impact measures categorised into five groups: Medicines R&D Priorities; Clinical Trial Design; Regulatory & Market Access Submissions; Product Support & Information; and Disease Support & Information. Thematic analysis was undertaken and impact measures revised in line with interview participant feedback. Emerging themes and revisions to impact measures were validated at a joint workshop with 4 patient advisors representing 4 POs. RESULTS The study revealed that PO representatives feel a deep sense of accomplishment and ownership when collaborating on PEPs with biopharmaceutical companies. They largely conceptualise 'impact' as positive, tangible and useful outcomes. The revisions made to the pre-defined patient engagement impact measures fell into three broad categories: (1) a requirement for greater context; (2) capturing the nature of patient influence; and (3) terminology changes. The greatest number of revisions concerned 'requiring greater context', for example, including additional descriptions, patient quotes, and satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS This study sheds light on how patient advocates view 'impact'. Typically this means delivering 'value' important for them. Therefore, the authors of this paper created the term 'value-impact' to comprehensively characterise this conceptualisation, and propose a value-impact measurement plan, incorporating longitudinal data. Through this understanding and in light of other recently published work, wide-scale adoption and implementation of the measurement of value-impact across the biopharmaceutical industry can be realised.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rachel H Giles
- International Kidney Cancer Coalition (IKCC), Duivendrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Teodora Kolarova
- International Neuroendocrine Cancer Alliance (INCA), Boston, USA
| | - Muriël Marks
- World Alliance of Pituitary Organisations (WAPO), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Schramm LK, Monsefi N, Hüser J, Truebel H, Mondritzki T. A novel approach for quantification of the future unmet medical need in right ventricular dysfunction. Drug Discov Today 2021; 27:1326-1331. [PMID: 34958958 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Although 'unmet medical need' (UMN) is an increasingly used term in the healthcare sector instrumental to the approximate value of drug discovery projects relevant to portfolio management, no standardized approach exists for its quantification. Especially in diseases with different comorbidities, high patient heterogeneity, and incomplete epidemiological data, it is difficult to judge the need for new therapies. The approach presented here combines an expert assessment of key UMN indicators related to the individual patient with a literature search to collect epidemiological data describing the corresponding patient population with its underlying heterogeneity. This assessment support decision-making within the portfolio management process in larger research and development organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nadejda Monsefi
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Helios Heart Center NRW, Siegburg-Wuppertal, Germany
| | | | | | - Thomas Mondritzki
- Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany; University of Witten/Herdecke, Witten, Germany.
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Factors related to the incidence of unmet need in couples of reproductive age in the working area of Marawola Health Center. GACETA SANITARIA 2021; 35 Suppl 2:S176-S179. [PMID: 34929805 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaceta.2021.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed at determining factors associated with the incidence of unmet need for family planning among couples of reproductive age in the working area of Marawola Health Center, Sigi Regency. METHOD This research was an analytic observational study with a cross-sectional study design. The variables in this study included age, education, family planning history, husband's support and unmet need. Data were in the form of primary and secondary data. Data were collected using a questionnaire. The data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate analysis utilizing the Chi-Square test. Population in this study were 4715 couples of reproductive age in the working area of Marawola Health Center. By using Lemeshow's calculation technique and simple random sampling, a sample of 90 people was obtained. RESULT The results demonstrated a relationship between age and the incidence of unmet need with p value=0.004 (p-value ≤0.05); education and the incidence of unmet deed with p value=0.005 (p-value ≤0.05); family planning history and the incidence of unmet need with p value=0.002 (p-value ≤0.05); as well as husband's support and the incidence of unmet need with p value=0.001 (p-value ≤0.05). CONCLUSION This study concludes that there is a relationship between age, education, family planning history, and husband's support and the incidence of unmet need for family planning in the working area of Marawola Health Center, Sigi Regency. Therefore, health workers, local governments, and traditional institutions are expected to provide education about family planning to couples of reproductive age (husband and wife) as an attempt to reduce the number of unmet needs in the working area of Marawola Health Center.
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Bloem LT, Bot RE, Mantel-Teeuwisse AK, van der Elst ME, Sonke GS, Klungel OH, Leufkens HGM, Hoekman J. Pre-approval and post-approval availability of evidence and clinical benefit of conditionally approved cancer drugs in Europe: a comparison with standard approved cancer drugs. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2021; 88:2169-2179. [PMID: 34779004 PMCID: PMC9303888 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.15141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Cancer drugs are increasingly approved through expedited regulatory pathways including the European conditional marketing authorization (CMA). Whether, when taking CMA post‐approval confirmatory trials into account, the level of evidence and clinical benefit between CMA and standard approved (SMA) drugs differs remains unknown. Methods We identified all CMA cancer indications converted to SMA in 2006–2020 and compared these to similar SMA indications with regard to pivotal trial and CMA post‐approval confirmatory trial design, outcomes and demonstrated clinical benefit (per the European Society for Medical Oncology Magnitude of Clinical Benefit Scale). We tested for differences in clinical benefit and whether substantial clinical benefit was demonstrated. To account for the clinical benefit of unconverted CMA indications, we performed sensitivity analyses. Results We included 15 SMA and 15 converted CMA cancer indications (17 remained unconverted). Approval of 11 SMA (73%) and four CMA indications (27%) was supported by a controlled trial. Improved overall survival (OS) was demonstrated for four SMA indications (27%). Improved quality of life (QoL) was demonstrated for three SMA (20%) and one CMA indication(s) (7%). Of subsequent CMA post‐approval confirmatory trials, 11 were controlled (79%), one demonstrated improved OS (7%) and five improved QoL (36%). After conversion, CMA indications were associated with similar clinical benefit (P = .31) and substantial clinical benefit as SMA indications (risk ratio 1.4, 95% confidence interval 0.57–3.4). Conclusion While CMA cancer indications are initially associated with less comprehensive evidence than SMA indications, levels of evidence and clinical benefit are similar after conversion from CMA to SMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lourens T Bloem
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Dutch Medicines Evaluation Board, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Rosalinde E Bot
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Dutch Medicines Evaluation Board, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Aukje K Mantel-Teeuwisse
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Gabe S Sonke
- Dutch Medicines Evaluation Board, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Olaf H Klungel
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Hubert G M Leufkens
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Jarno Hoekman
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Innovation Studies, Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Zhang K, Kumar G, Skedgel C. Towards a New Understanding of Unmet Medical Need. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2021; 19:785-788. [PMID: 34143420 PMCID: PMC8545781 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-021-00655-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kyann Zhang
- Office of Health Economics, Southside, 7th Floor, 105 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QT, UK
| | - Gayathri Kumar
- Office of Health Economics, Southside, 7th Floor, 105 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QT, UK
| | - Chris Skedgel
- Office of Health Economics, Southside, 7th Floor, 105 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 6QT, UK.
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Jommi C, Listorti E, Villa F, Ghislandi S, Genazzani A, Cangini A, Trotta F. Variables affecting pricing of orphan drugs: the Italian case. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:439. [PMID: 34666819 PMCID: PMC8527608 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-02022-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aim Evidence on determinants of prices for orphan medicines is scarce and not available for Italy. The aim of this paper is to provide an evidence on variables affecting the annual treatment cost of orphan drugs in Italy, testing the hypothesis of a negative correlation with the dimension of the target population and a positive correlation with the added therapeutic value of the drug and the quality of the evidence of pivotal studies. Methods Drugs with a European orphan designation reimbursed in Italy in the last 6 years (2014–2019) were considered. Univariate, cluster analysis and multiple regression models were used to investigate the correlation between the annual treatment cost and, as explanatory variables, the dimension of the target population, the existence of Randomized Clinical Trials as a proxy of the quality of the pivotal studies, the added therapeutic value. Results In the univariate analysis prevalence and added therapeutic value, as expected, have a negative and positive correlation with cost respectively. The correlation with RCT is not significant. In the multivariate model, coefficients for prevalence and added value are confirmed but for the latter are not significant anymore. We also found, through an interaction analysis, that the existence of an RCT has a positive impact on annual treatment cost when the target population is very small. Conclusions Our results suggest that value arguments and sustainability (dimension of the target population and its impact on budget impact) issues are considered for orphan drugs pricing: the role played by sustainability is systematically supported by our results. A more transparent and reproducible price negotiation process for orphan drugs is needed in Italy. This paper has contributed to highlight the implicit drivers of this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Jommi
- Cergas (Centre for Research on Health and Social Care Management), SDA Bocconi, Bocconi University, Via Sarfatti 10, 20136, Milan, Italy.
| | - Elisabetta Listorti
- Cergas (Centre for Research on Health and Social Care Management), SDA Bocconi, Bocconi University, Via Sarfatti 10, 20136, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Villa
- Aifa (Italian Medicines Agency), Via del Tritone 181, 00187, Rome, Italy.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Largo Guido Donegani, 2, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Simone Ghislandi
- Cergas (Centre for Research on Health and Social Care Management), SDA Bocconi, Bocconi University, Via Sarfatti 10, 20136, Milan, Italy.,Department of Social and Political Sciences, Bocconi University, Via Rontgen 1, 20136, Milan, Italy
| | - Armando Genazzani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Largo Guido Donegani, 2, 28100, Novara, Italy
| | - Agnese Cangini
- Aifa (Italian Medicines Agency), Via del Tritone 181, 00187, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Trotta
- Aifa (Italian Medicines Agency), Via del Tritone 181, 00187, Rome, Italy
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Kusynová Z, Pauletti GM, van den Ham HA, Leufkens HGM, Mantel-Teeuwisse AK. Unmet Medical Need as a Driver for Pharmaceutical Sciences - A Survey Among Scientists. J Pharm Sci 2021; 111:1318-1324. [PMID: 34634318 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2021.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Historical antecedents of pharmaceutical sciences are sound on product orientation based on (analytical) chemistry, drug delivery and basic pharmacology. Over the last decades we have seen a transition towards a stronger disease orientation. This raises questions on whether, how and to what extent unmet medical need (UMN) is important in priority setting, funding and impact in pharmaceutical sciences. An online survey in 2020 collected perspectives of internationally recognised pharmaceutical scientists (N = 92), mainly from academia and industry, on drivers and influencing factors in pharmaceutical sciences. The study offers a unique global perspective, demonstrating a solid command of the global needs in pharmaceutical sciences. The survey revealed that UMN is currently seen as one of the three most important drivers, also in addition to emerging trends in science and opportunities driven by collaboration. There are expectations that UMN's impact becomes more influential. This was consistent for both industry and academic respondents. The majority of respondents also indicated that anticipated lessons learned from COVID-19 will strengthen the impact of UMN on science and leadership. This is important as prioritisation of research towards UMN can address the clinical needs where needed the most.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Kusynová
- Utrecht Centre for Pharmaceutical Policy and Regulation, Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - G M Pauletti
- International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), The Hague, the Netherlands; St. Louis College of Pharmacy, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
| | - H A van den Ham
- Utrecht Centre for Pharmaceutical Policy and Regulation, Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - H G M Leufkens
- Utrecht Centre for Pharmaceutical Policy and Regulation, Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - A K Mantel-Teeuwisse
- Utrecht Centre for Pharmaceutical Policy and Regulation, Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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Pochopień M, Qiu T, Aballea S, Clay E, Toumi M. Considering potential solutions for limitations and challenges in the health economic evaluation of gene therapies. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2021; 21:1145-1158. [PMID: 34407704 DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2021.1969229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The limited evidence in the clinical trials of gene therapies (GTs) posed substantial challenges for a reliable health technology assessment (HTA). This paper provides insights into the relationship between the background of diseases and the health economics assessment of GTs.Areas covered: The impacts of differentiated severity and unmet needs of genetic diseases, on the economic analysis of GTs, were discussed.Expert opinion: GTs offer a potential cure or significant clinical improvement, while limitations in clinical evidence constitute major obstacles for a robust assessment of clinical effectiveness and economic outcomes. This uncertainty may be balanced by the severity of the targeted condition and the associated unmet needs, thus leading to a relatively higher acceptance for GTs. Overtime, HTA agencies will become more demanding on comprehensive evidence of long-term effectiveness. With a growing number of GTs on the horizon, to what extent the unmet needs of previously devastating diseases will be fulfilled remain unclear. Nonetheless, comparative studies, either with a historical control group or existing treatments, will be necessary to demonstrate the additional benefits associated with GTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Pochopień
- Public health department, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France.,Department of health economics and outcomes research, Creativ-Ceutical, Kraków, Poland
| | - Tingting Qiu
- Public health department, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Samuel Aballea
- Public health department, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Emilie Clay
- Department of health economics and outcomes research, Creativ-Ceutical, Paris, France
| | - Mondher Toumi
- Public health department, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
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Identifying Unmet Care Needs and Important Treatment Attributes in the Management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Qualitative Interview Study. PATIENT-PATIENT CENTERED OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2021; 15:207-218. [PMID: 34368925 PMCID: PMC8349666 DOI: 10.1007/s40271-021-00539-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objective Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an inflammatory skin disease with a profound effect on patients’ quality of life. The patient’s journey to manage HS is often complex and unsuccessful, which motivates the aim of this research to gain insight into unmet needs and relevant treatment considerations from the perspective of patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs). Methods Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients and HCPs experienced in treating HS to understand the perceived unmet care needs and to identify important treatment attributes. Prioritization of the five most important treatment attributes allowed elicitation of their relative importance. Results Interviews with 12 patients and 16 HCPs revealed 16 areas of unmet needs either related to treatment outcomes or the care process and 13 important treatment attributes. The most frequently reported unmet needs by patients and HCPs were lacking quality-of-life improvement, low treatment effectiveness, inadequate pain control, low disease awareness, and delayed diagnosis. Patients expressed unique concerns relating to pain management, access to HS specialists, and wound care guidance and costs, which HCPs did not. Treatment attributes related to effectiveness were considered most important by patients and HCPs. Patients additionally emphasized a strong preference for improved pain management. Conclusions Current HS treatments and care processes leave patients and HCPs with a high level of unmet need. It is critical to consider patients’ and HCPs’ perspectives when designing appropriate HS care as perceived unmet needs differ. Further quantitative preference elicitation studies are needed to assess the trade-offs between important care needs and treatment attributes.
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Bloem LT, Vreman RA, Peeters NWL, Hoekman J, van der Elst ME, Leufkens HGM, Klungel OH, Goettsch WG, Mantel-Teeuwisse AK. Associations between uncertainties identified by the European Medicines Agency and national decision making on reimbursement by HTA agencies. Clin Transl Sci 2021; 14:1566-1577. [PMID: 33786991 PMCID: PMC8301545 DOI: 10.1111/cts.13027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to determine whether uncertainties identified by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) were associated with negative relative effectiveness assessments (REAs) and negative overall reimbursement recommendations by national health technology assessment (HTA) agencies. Therefore, we identified all HTA reports from Haute Autorité de Santé (HAS; France), National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE; England/Wales), Scottish Medicine Consortium (SMC; Scotland), and Zorginstituut Nederland (ZIN; The Netherlands) for a cohort of innovative medicines that the EMA had approved in 2009 to 2010 (excluding vaccines). Uncertainty regarding pivotal trial methodology, clinical outcomes, and their clinical relevance were combined to reflect a low, medium, or high level of uncertainty. We assessed associations by calculating risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and agreement between REA and overall reimbursement recommendation outcomes. We identified 36 medicines for which 121 reimbursement recommendations had been issued by the HTA agencies between September 2009 and July 2018. High versus low uncertainty was associated with an increased risk for negative REAs and negative overall reimbursement recommendations: RRs 1.9 (95% CI 0.9-3.9) and 1.6 (95% CI 0.7-3.5), respectively, which was supported by further sensitivity analyses. We identified a lack of agreement between 33 (27%) REA and overall reimbursement recommendation outcomes, which were mostly restricted recommendations that followed on negative REAs in case of low or medium uncertainty. In conclusion, high uncertainty identified by the EMA was associated with negative REAs and negative overall reimbursement recommendations. To reduce uncertainty and ultimately facilitate efficient patient access, regulators, HTA agencies, and other stakeholders should discuss how uncertainties should be weighed and addressed early in the drug life cycle of innovative treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lourens T Bloem
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Dutch Medicines Evaluation Board, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rick A Vreman
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,National Healthcare Institute, Diemen, The Netherlands
| | - Niels W L Peeters
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jarno Hoekman
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Innovation Studies, Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Hubert G M Leufkens
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Olaf H Klungel
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Aukje K Mantel-Teeuwisse
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Clinical Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Di Cara NH, Song J, Maggio V, Moreno-Stokoe C, Tanner AR, Woolf B, Davis OSP, Davies A. Mapping population vulnerability and community support during COVID-19: a case study from Wales. Int J Popul Data Sci 2021; 5:1409. [PMID: 34007892 PMCID: PMC8104153 DOI: 10.23889/ijpds.v5i4.1409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disasters such as the COVID-19 pandemic pose an overwhelming demand on resources that cannot always be met by official organisations. Limited resources and human response to crises can lead members of local communities to turn to one another to fulfil immediate needs. This spontaneous citizen-led response can be crucial to a community's ability to cope in a crisis. It is thus essential to understand the scope of such initiatives so that support can be provided where it is most needed. Nevertheless, quickly developing situations and varying definitions can make the community response challenging to measure. AIM To create an accessible interactive map of the citizen-led community response to need during the COVID-19 pandemic in Wales, UK that combines information gathered from multiple data providers to reflect different interpretations of need and support. APPROACH We gathered data from a combination of official data providers and community-generated sources to create 14 variables representative of need and support. These variables are derived by a reproducible data pipeline that enables flexible integration of new data. The interactive tool is available online (www.covidresponsemap.wales) and can map available data at two geographic resolutions. Users choose their variables of interest, and interpretation of the map is aided by a linked bee-swarm plot. DISCUSSION The novel approach we developed enables people at all levels of community response to explore and analyse the distribution of need and support across Wales. While there can be limitations to the accuracy of community-generated data, we demonstrate that they can be effectively used alongside traditional data sources to maximise the understanding of community action. This adds to our overall aim to measure community response and resilience, as well as to make complex population health data accessible to a range of audiences. Future developments include the integration of other factors such as well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina H Di Cara
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Jiao Song
- Research and Evaluation Division, Public Health Wales, UK
| | - Valerio Maggio
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Christopher Moreno-Stokoe
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, UK
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, UK
| | | | - Benjamin Woolf
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, UK
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Oliver SP Davis
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, UK
- The Alan Turing Institute, London, UK
| | - Alisha Davies
- Research and Evaluation Division, Public Health Wales, UK
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The Qualitative Value of Facilitated Regulatory Pathways in Europe, USA, and Japan: Benefits, Barriers to Utilization, and Suggested Solutions. Pharmaceut Med 2021; 35:113-122. [PMID: 33537899 PMCID: PMC7858039 DOI: 10.1007/s40290-020-00372-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Background Despite the growing application of facilitated regulatory pathways (FRPs), little attention has focused on assessing the perception of pharmaceutical companies regarding their usefulness beyond increasing timeliness. Objectives The aim of this study was to characterize the perceived value of four key FRPs, based on industry experiences in using these pathways. In addition, we sought to characterize the perceived impact based on benefits and barriers as well as suggested solutions for their use and recommendations as identified by companies, to outline how these FRPs may be further evolved as tools for expediting the development and regulatory review of important medicines. Methods A study was undertaken to characterize the perceived value and impact of US FDA (i.e., Breakthrough Therapy Designation, Fast Track), European Medicines Agency (i.e., PRIME), and Japanese Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices Agency (i.e., Sakigake) FRPs through a comprehensive analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) as well as suggested solutions based on industry experiences with their use. The finalized survey comprised six questions and was sent to senior management in regulatory affairs departments at 22 multinational pharmaceutical companies in March 2019, with a deadline for completion by April 2019. The responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics. SWOT and free-text responses were reviewed and manually grouped into key themes according to high concordance. Results Survey results were returned by 11 pharmaceutical companies. Based on their perceived value and positive impact, the evaluated FRPs seem to be generally recognized as helpful tools for ensuring timely development and review of important medicines while ensuring multistakeholder involvement. Respondents overwhelmingly felt that the Breakthrough Therapy Designation carried a positive influence, both within and outside their organizations. Following closely with a positive although varied perception was Sakigake, but respondents exhibited more ambivalence about Fast Track and PRIME. Companies felt the impact of the FRPs was generally positive for most stakeholders except for health technology assessors/payers, highlighting the need to better align FRPs with flexible access and reimbursement pathways to expedite the equitable availability of high‐quality, safe, effective medicines. Conclusions This study highlighted common recommendations across all four FRPs (relating to resource optimization, education, alignment, and communication to improve effective use), as well as agency-specific recommendations, some of which are already being addressed by the regulators. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40290-020-00372-7.
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Simoens S, Spriet I. Guidance for Demonstrating the Societal Value of new Antibiotics. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:618238. [PMID: 33597882 PMCID: PMC7882732 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.618238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Given that antibiotic use is associated with externalities, standard economic evaluation which considers costs and health gains accruing to patients under-values antibiotics. Informed by a scoping review, this discussion paper aims to identify the societal value elements of antibiotics and to provide guidance on how these value elements can be incorporated in economic evaluation. With a view to appropriately quantify the societal value of antibiotics, there is a need for good practice guidelines on the methodology of economic evaluation for such products. We argue that it is important to assess antibiotics at population level to account for their transmission, diversity, insurance, spectrum, novel action and enablement values. In addition to the value of antibiotics to infected patients, economic evaluations need to use modeling approaches to explore the impact of different modes of employing new and existing antibiotics (for example, as last resort treatment) on disease transmission and resistance development in current and future patients. Hence, assessing the value of antibiotics also involves an ethical dimension. Further work is required about how the multiple value elements of antibiotics are linked to each other and how they can be aggregated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Simoens
- KU Leuven Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Isabel Spriet
- KU Leuven Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Leuven, Belgium.,Pharmacy Department, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Hanff AM, Pauly C, Pauly L, Schröder VE, Hansen M, Meyers GR, Kaysen A, Hansen L, Wauters F, Krüger R. Unmet Needs of People With Parkinson's Disease and Their Caregivers During COVID-19-Related Confinement: An Explorative Secondary Data Analysis. Front Neurol 2021; 11:615172. [PMID: 33536999 PMCID: PMC7848016 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.615172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Self-perceived unmet needs in people with typical and atypical parkinsonism (PwP) and their caregivers, support network, personalized ways to address self-perceived unmet needs during confinement, as well as the prevalence of self-reported COVID-19 related symptoms, confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, and self-reported COVID-19 related hospitalization in Luxembourg and the Greater Region were assessed. From 18th March to 10th April 2020, 679 PwP were contacted by phone. Data was collected in the form of a semi-structured interview. The thematic synthesis identified 25 themes where PwP need to be supported in order to cope with consequences of the pandemic, and to adapt their daily and health-related activities. The present work highlights that in the context of personalized medicine, depending on the individual needs of support of the patient the identified self-perceived unmet needs were addressed in various ways ranging from one-directed information over interaction up to proactive counseling and monitoring. Family and health professionals, but also other support systems were taking care of the unmet needs of PwP (e.g., shopping, picking-up medication, etc.) during the pandemic. 7/606 PwP (1.15%) reported COVID-19 related symptoms, 4/606 (0.66%) underwent a rRT-PCR-based diagnostic test and 2/606 (0.33%) were confirmed as SARS-CoV-2 positive. None of these PwP reported being hospitalized due to COVID-19. Our results will allow health professionals to expand their services in a meaningful way i.e., personalize their support in the identified themes and thus improve the healthcare of PwP in times of crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Marie Hanff
- Transversal Translational Medicine, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen, Luxembourg
| | - Claire Pauly
- Parkinson Research Clinic, Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg.,Translational Neuroscience, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Belval, Luxembourg
| | - Laure Pauly
- Parkinson Research Clinic, Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg.,Translational Neuroscience, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Belval, Luxembourg
| | - Valerie E Schröder
- Parkinson Research Clinic, Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg.,Translational Neuroscience, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Belval, Luxembourg
| | - Maxime Hansen
- Transversal Translational Medicine, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen, Luxembourg.,Parkinson Research Clinic, Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Guilherme Ramos Meyers
- Parkinson Research Clinic, Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg.,Translational Neuroscience, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Belval, Luxembourg
| | - Anne Kaysen
- Translational Neuroscience, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Belval, Luxembourg
| | - Linda Hansen
- Parkinson Research Clinic, Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Femke Wauters
- Parkinson Research Clinic, Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Rejko Krüger
- Transversal Translational Medicine, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Strassen, Luxembourg.,Parkinson Research Clinic, Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg, Luxembourg, Luxembourg.,Translational Neuroscience, Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, University of Luxembourg, Esch-Belval, Luxembourg
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Galeone C, Bruzzi P, Jommi C. Key drivers of innovativeness appraisal for medicines: the Italian experience after the adoption of the new ranking system. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e041259. [PMID: 33441356 PMCID: PMC7812109 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-041259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In 2017, the Italian Medicines Agency (Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco, AIFA) introduced a standardised process to appraise innovativeness of medicines. Innovative medicines are provided speeder market access and dedicated funds. Innovativeness criteria are: unmet therapeutic need, added therapeutic value and quality of the evidence (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation method). We investigated the role played by these three criteria on the final decision aimed to understand how the new Italian innovativeness appraisal framework was implemented. DESIGN A desk research gathered AIFA's appraisal reports on innovativeness and data analyses were conducted. No patients were directly involved in this study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS We scrutinised all 77 appraisal reports available on AIFA's website (2017-2020). PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES The impact of the three domains on final decision was investigated through a series of univariate analyses. RESULTS Among 77 appraisal reports on innovativeness available, 49 (64%) and 28 (36%) were for oncology and non-oncology medicines, respectively. The appraisals were equally distributed among 'fully innovative' (36%), 'conditionally innovative' (30%) and 'not innovative' (34%). Added therapeutic value was the most important driver on innovativeness decision, followed by quality of the evidence. Drugs for rare diseases and with paediatric/mixed indications were appraised 'innovative' by a larger proportion, but no statistical significance was found. CONCLUSIONS Despite some limitations, including the moderate number of appraisals, this paper provides an insight into the determinants of innovativeness appraisals for medicines in Italy and the accuracy of the appraisal process. This has important implications in terms of transparency and accountability in the prioritisation process applied to innovative medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Galeone
- Bicocca Applied Statistics Center (B-ASC), Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
- Biostatistics & Outcome Research, Statinfo, Renate, Lombardia, Italy
| | - Paolo Bruzzi
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, IRCCS AOU San Martino, Genova, Liguria, Italy
| | - Claudio Jommi
- CERGAS (Centre for Research on Health and Social Care Management), SDA Bocconi School of Management, Bocconi University, Milano, Lombardia, Italy
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