Zentiva Advocates for Comprehensive Pharmaceutical Reform in Europe to Enhance Healthcare Access
In a proactive move towards ensuring equitable healthcare access, Zentiva has joined fellow stakeholders in urging European policymakers to finalize crucial pharmaceutical reforms. The slogan "Health is a right, not a privilege" encapsulates the company's vision of a healthcare system that leaves no individual behind. As Europe grapples with necessary legislative changes, the emphasis on making health central to political decisions is paramount.
At the heart of this advocacy is the alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, which focuses on health and well-being. Zentiva, along with representatives from the off-patent medicines sector, is pressing for reforms that bolster access to essential pharmaceuticals while promoting sustainability. The urgency of this call echoes in the practical steps needed to prevent medication shortages, revitalize local manufacturing, and enhance the resilience of health systems across Europe.
Zentiva's CEO, Steffen Saltofte, articulates the collective ambition of the off-patent medicines industry: "We need legislation that is fair and resilient. Through dialogue with the European Commission, we can identify shared objectives to strengthen the healthcare framework. Our commitment is towards creating sustainable solutions that cater to European patients. As we have learned from instances like the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive, isolated actions without considering broader implications can threaten the overall availability of essential medicines."
The CEO further stressed the importance of harmonizing EU principles within a unified market. This approach would not only expedite access to medicines but also streamline regulatory processes, ensuring fair treatment for patients throughout the EU. Moreover, Zentiva advocates for robust competition in the market, especially when patents expire, pushing for the clarification of the Bolar exemption—a policy critical for fostering affordable treatments.
Addressing challenges related to medicine shortages is paramount. Zentiva proposes better coordination at the EU level using digital tools to tackle this persistent issue. In addition, there's a vital need for innovative approaches concerning off-patent medicines that can significantly influence public health and responsible environmental practices.
The call extends to empowering the Critical Medicines Act to encompass a broader spectrum of essential pharmaceuticals, underscoring that patients depend on a wide array of molecules for their health and well-being. The existing disproportionate environmental legislation, as highlighted by the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive, also demands immediate attention to ensure it does not hinder the availability and affordability of medicines.
The statistics speak volumes: with generics comprising a staggering 70% of prescribed medicines, and 9 out of 10 critical drugs being generics, innovation and access are more crucial than ever. With up to 40% of products lacking therapeutic alternatives, it is imperative to secure consistent production of affordable medicines for all Europeans.
Zentiva, which has a rich history of over 500 years beginning from a small pharmacy in Prague, is committed to ensuring that high-quality, affordable healthcare is accessible to over 100 million people across more than 30 countries. Their focus on sustainable growth is reinforced by a network of four wholly owned manufacturing sites and various external partners, ensuring supply security and commitment to their mission. Zentiva aims to foster an inclusive workplace where its more than 5,000 employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to the company’s goals.
In conclusion, the message from Zentiva is clear: it is time for European lawmakers to take decisive action on pharmaceutical reforms. The aim is to construct a fair and sustainable healthcare system that aligns with the needs of the people, ensuring that health as a right is not merely an aspiration but a reality for all citizens.