UK VPAG DECISION DEADLINE EXTENDED AGAIN
The UK and ABPI have agreed to a third extension of the VPAG withdrawal deadline, moving it to December 16, 2025.
Market Access
Spain Expands Newborn Screening Portfolio and Launches National Asbestos Injury Certification in Dual Public Health Overhaul
Spanish health official displays a Ministry of Health certificate for asbestos-related injury, as Spain rolls out its new national certification system alongside expanded neonatal screening reforms. (Editorial illustration.) CISNS approves sweeping updates to neonatal diagnostics and formalizes a nationwide system to certify asbestos-related disease for compensation Spain’s Interterritorial Council of the National Health System (CISNS) … Read more
ICER Releases Draft Scope on COVID-19 Vaccines
The Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER) has posted a draft scoping document outlining its plans to assess the long-term clinical and economic value of updated COVID-19 vaccines.
TLV Endorses Keytruda Combo for Advanced Cervical Cancer with Cost-Effectiveness Caveats
Sweden’s TLV has published its health economic assessment of Merck’s Keytruda for locally advanced cervical cancer, finding clear efficacy benefits when added to chemoradiation. However, the agency warns that cost-effectiveness hinges on price transparency and real-world survival durability.
CMS’ Medicaid drug payment model brings Trump’s MFN push
CMS’ Medicaid drug payment model links value-based pricing and international benchmarks to lower costs and improve patient outcomes. (Editorial illustration.) US government aims to lower Medicaid drug prices and align costs with global rates under new GENEROUS model The US government has launched a sweeping initiative to reduce prescription drug costs under the Medicaid program, … Read more
Dutch Healthcare Institute Limits Early Access to Obesity Drugs Amid Cost and Evidence Concerns
The Dutch Healthcare Institute is taking a cautious, phased approach to new obesity drugs, limiting access to patients with the highest disease burden. The move reflects concerns about evidence gaps, cost-effectiveness, and the growing pressure obesity treatments could place on the national healthcare budget.
Thailand launches drug access program to slash household medical bills by 32B baht
Thailand is letting patients fill hospital prescriptions at registered pharmacies under a new initiative expected to save households 32 billion baht annually. Officials say the program will ease private-sector pricing pressure and improve drug access nationwide.
Obesity Drug Talks Reach Defining Moment as Lilly and Novo Near Trump Administration Pricing Deal
In a major policy moment, Lilly and Novo Nordisk are in active talks with U.S. officials to cap obesity drug prices, aligning political pressure with market strategy.
340B Rebate Model Pilot Clears HRSA Approval, Hospitals Warn of New Burdens
HRSA’s approval of eight manufacturers for its 340B Rebate Model Pilot signals a major pricing shift.
Healthcare Reimbursement Overhaul: CMS Promises Major Savings and Triggers Industry Recalibration
CMS’s payment modernization plan seeks to trim inefficiencies, curb wasteful spending in wound care, and realign value in Medicare reimbursement. Providers brace for tighter margins as policymakers hail a new era of cost discipline.