In 2023, the European Commission proposed a revision of the General Pharmaceutical Legislation (GPL). This proposal, adopted by the Parliament in April 2024 aims to ensure timely and equitable access to safe, effective, and affordable medicines across the EU, enhance supply security, foster an innovation-friendly environment for medicine development, promote environmental sustainability, and address antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and pharmaceutical presence in the environment through a One Health approach. The proposal has additionally introduced the concept of “Unmet Medical Need” which shapes patient access to innovative treatments.
Together with our partners, CPE calls for the definition of Unmet Medical Needs to remain broad and flexible rather than rigidly defined to support the development of new therapies, avoid hindering innovation and prevent healthcare disparities.
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At Cancer Patients Europe our vision is to reduce the burden of cancer on patients and survivors, their carers, the healthcare system and society as a whole. We achieve this by giving patients voice in policies that drive prevention, high quality cancer care, treatment and survivorship in Europe.
Our policy work includes anticipating, providing advice and contributing to the formulation of relevant legislative proposals taking place at the European level. Our activities on policy include the publication of Calls to Action, position papers, input on consultations by the European Commission, the European Medicines Agency and direct engagement with policymakers.
Learn more about our policy work as we continue to push for a brighter future for the cancer community.