61st PAHO Directing Council: Access and rational use of strategic and high-cost medicines and other health technologies

On 3 October 2024 in Washington, D.C., IFPMA and FIFARMA delivered a statement at the 61st PAHO Directing Council on a report focused on access and rational use of strategic and high-cose medicines and other health technologies.

At the 61st Directing Council, PAHO presented the report on "Access and Rational Use of Strategic and High-cost Medicines and Other Health Technologies." This document addresses issues such as health technology management policies, financing, supply chains, regulatory systems, innovation, research, and partnerships with the private sector.

From FIFARMA and IFPMA, we would like to highlight three points. First, we believe that a healthy population is key to economic growth and sustainable development. To this end, investment in health systems is crucial. According to the World Bank, Brazil is the country in Latin America that invests the most in health, with 9.89% of GDP, but still below Portugal, the European country with the lowest investment (10.62%). This underscores the importance of viewing health as an investment, not an expense.

Second, mature regulatory systems are vital. The report shows that eight regulatory authorities still need to adopt continuous improvement plans to be recognized by WHO. In addition, 40% of Member States do not perform all of the recommended regulatory functions, which makes it necessary to strengthen the systems with international standards.

Finally, we must prioritize clinical research. This strengthens capacities and brings benefits in three areas: patient health, access to medical innovations, and growth of scientific knowledge, in addition to generating economic investment in the countries.

It is essential to recognize the role of health in the creation of productive, sustainable and financially sound societies. Let us work together to develop more efficient health systems that guarantee access to innovative treatments and improve the quality of life for all Latin Americans. We stand ready to collaborate in this shared mission to build a healthier and more prosperous future for all Latin Americans.

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