Event Report: Case studies on rare disease therapies development

Aware of the complex European policy landscape that will keep policymakers busy in the months to come, EUCOPE wanted to discuss the European innovation leadership in the pharmaceutical sector and discover how the European Union and Member States can support pharmaceutical innovation in Europe.

On 20 November, a few days before the publication of the Pharmaceutical Strategy for Europe and the inception impact assessment on OMP and Paediatric Regulations, EUCOPE brought together industry representatives and policymakers to explore the journey and experiences of two mid-sized companies, and reflect on how can Europe remains leader in healthcare despite the disruption brought by COVID-19 pandemic.

Introducing the event, Alexander Natz, EUCOPE’s Secretary General, elaborated on EUCOPE’s vision:

“Pharmaceutical SMEs and start-ups constitute a laboratory of innovation which should be nurtured through a future-proof European incentives ecosystem that encourages the development of cutting-edge technologies. It is critical to welcome innovative payment models and a modern approach to assessing the value of medicines.”

Have a look at the event report and presentations. The event allowed us to discuss companies’ experiences in the context of the EU environment for the development of OMP  and test ideas and recommendations on future outlooks to foster rare disease treatment innovation in Europe.

Following the webinar, one of our speakers, Dr. Paul Rübig, member of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and of the Governing Board of the European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT), shared his perspectives and key takeaways from the event in an article published in the EESC newsletter of December 2020.

As highlighted by Dr Rübig, in an increasingly competitive world and complex international environment, it is critical for SMEs in Europe to receive support throughout their journey, from research to patient access. Thus, the EU should continue strengthening its innovation ecosystem and supporting pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies’ investments in Europe.