Session 24

Are medicines affordable for health systems?

The myths, the facts, and the way forward

Organised by the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations

Healthcare budgets are put under continuous pressure by a multitude of factors – such as inefficiencies and waste, inflation, and our growing and ageing populations. Despite representing 15% of health spending on average across Europe, pharmaceutical expenditure has long been a focal point of health authorities and political debates. A broader understanding is needed about the role of investment in therapeutic innovation to deliver improved health outcomes, cost offsets for health systems, and to generate productive economies.

Our session will discuss pharmaceutical affordability from a budget design and allocation perspective, and explore potential solutions to ensure European patients gain fast and safe access to novel therapies. The diverse panel of stakeholders involved in this complex ecosystem will debate the possible ways forward to improve affordability.