The rising cost of treatments for rare diseases and cancer has placed immense financial strain on patients and their families. In a significant move, the government is reportedly considering duty reductions on imported medicines for these conditions in the upcoming Union budget. This initiative aims to make lifesaving treatments more accessible and affordable to those in need.
Addressing the Financial Burden of Rare Disease Treatments
Medicines for rare diseases are often prohibitively expensive, largely due to their reliance on imports. “Drugs for rare disease treatment are very costly, and these are largely imported, which increases the overall cost of treatment,” said an official familiar with the matter.
The Ministry of Health has proposed duty cuts on medications used for rare disease management to address these concerns. While the details of the specific drugs or treatments eligible for these concessions remain undisclosed, the initiative reflects a commitment to alleviating the financial hardships faced by patients with rare ailments.
Cancer Medications May Also See Duty Exemptions
In addition to rare disease medications, the government is reportedly considering customs duty exemptions for cancer drugs. Cancer treatments often involve high costs, which can be a significant barrier to care. The proposal to waive or reduce duties on cancer medications could provide much-needed relief for countless families.
Although no specifics on the drugs benefiting from this measure have been provided, experts and healthcare providers are optimistic about the potential impact.
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The National Policy for Rare Diseases: A Foundation for Progress
The government’s National Policy for Rare Diseases (NPRD), introduced in 2021, has been a pivotal step in addressing the unique challenges posed by rare diseases. Covering 63 conditions, including Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), Gaucher’s Disease, and Pompe Disease, the NPRD seeks to provide comprehensive and holistic care for affected individuals.
In March 2023, the government fully exempted all drugs and specialized medical foods imported for personal use for treating rare diseases listed under the NPRD from basic customs duty. Previously, these drugs were subject to a basic customs duty of 10%, while some lifesaving drugs and vaccines were levied at 5% or zero duty.
The NPRD also emphasizes the ever-evolving landscape of rare diseases, with new conditions being identified regularly. This dynamic approach ensures the policy remains relevant and responsive to the needs of patients.
Expanding Aid For Cancer Treatments
In the interim budget of 2024, customs duty exemptions were announced for three crucial cancer drugs—Trastuzumab Deruxtecan, Osimertinib, and Durvalumab. These exemptions marked a significant step in reducing the financial barriers to accessing innovative and effective cancer therapies.
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The planned duty cuts on additional cancer medications built on this foundation, signaling the government’s intent to further ease the burden on patients battling the disease.
The Road Ahead
Since the introduction of the NPRD in 2021, over 1,100 patients have received financial support from the government. The policy provides aid of up to ₹50 lakh per patient for treatment at designated centers of excellence.
The proposed duty cuts on rare disease and cancer medications reflect a crucial step towards equitable healthcare access. By easing the financial burden on patients, the government is not only fostering affordability but also offering hope to countless individuals grappling with these challenging conditions.
As the Union budget approaches, this anticipated policy change could pave the way for more inclusive healthcare solutions, ensuring that critical treatments are within reach for those who need them the most.