Lord Darzi's NHS review: An opportunity for the off-patent sector

Lord Darzi's review into the NHS sheds light on numerous challenges, from record-long wait times to the results of constrained capital spending. While reform and targeted investment are clearly critical, I've been thinking particularly about how the off-patent sector can contribute to fixing our “broken NHS”.

?The recent IPPR Commission on Health and Prosperity report, also chaired by Lord Darzi, underscores the crucial link between health and wealth, echoing many of the themes found in Darzi’s review. Both the Darzi Review and IPPR report both validates the Government's narrative on moving from treatment to prevention - off-patent medicines can be a crucial part of this strategy.

?The first step here is obvious, which is that the NHS continues to drive the rapid uptake of new generics and biosimilars that enter the market. With over 80 biologics losing exclusivity over the next five years, the money saved via switch could help alleviate the health service's stark financial position, thereby also reducing the burden on the taxpayer. Our role is to collaborate with the NHS to capture these savings.

?The second is slightly less obvious, though equally important. The report validates much of the Government's messaging around the need to move from treatment to prevention, and it's here that off-patent medicines, if used more strategically, can help.

?As we saw with rheumatoid arthritis, the cost reduction that comes with biosimilar entry can make it cost effective to treat a wider cohort of patients than previously possible, but without a bespoke process for enabling expansion, the total health gain opportunity will remain untapped.

?Ensuring the NHS harness the potential of off-patent medicines is more than just smart budgeting; it's an investment in our nation's health. Let’s work together to create a resilient, efficient NHS that delivers the best possible care for every patient.

?

?