Availability and financing of CAR-T cell therapies: A cross-country comparative analysis

The Health Policy Journal November 2024 issue features a study co-authored by Dr. Péter Gaál, President of MEMT, examining the availability and financing of CAR-T cell therapies across different countries in a comparative analysis. CAR-T cell therapy is an innovative cancer treatment that represents a significant advancement in the management of certain hematologic malignancies. The study aimed to identify disparities in access and funding across countries, providing key insights for healthcare policymakers.

The research analyzes the availability and financing of CAR-T cell therapies in ten countries, highlighting the challenges associated with the introduction and accessibility of this treatment. The key findings indicate that access to CAR-T therapies varies significantly across countries, reflecting differences in the organization and financing of specialized oncology care.

Financing models are often outcome-based or designed to collect real-world evidence on therapeutic effectiveness. CAR-T therapies are generally provided by experienced cancer centers, and some countries implement transparent and systematic eligibility criteria to promote equitable access.

However, challenges remain, particularly regarding the transparency of pricing, eligibility criteria, and budget allocation decisions. The high cost of treatment significantly limits broad accessibility. Funding is often shared among multiple stakeholders, including governments, insurers, and pharmaceutical manufacturers.

The study underscores that the introduction and financing of CAR-T therapies present complex challenges for healthcare systems, requiring further innovative solutions to ensure equitable access.

Read the full article at the following link: Health Policy Journal