STAT+: Vertex pushes a donation program to widen access to cystic fibrosis treatments, but advocates say it’s not enough
Vertex Pharmaceuticals is being accused by a group of advocates and physicians of refusing to take several steps that would widen access to its pricey cystic fibrosis medicines in predominantly poor countries.
In a recent Zoom call, company executives were urged to drop patent claims and implement a global pricing model reflecting R&D and production costs, which could make the treatments more affordable. Instead, the Vertex team maintained the company will use a nascent donation program to address the concerns, according to people who attended the Oct. 12 session.
The outcome frustrated a coalition pushing the company to alter its stance toward countries where cash-strapped governments are unable to meet pricing demands. The advocates and physicians also complained that, while Vertex maintained its donation program is a workable solution, the executives refused to disclose details about the extent of the initiative and how many people are benefiting.
