ISSUE

: Since 2014, six PD-(L)1 inhibitors - atezolizumab, avelumab, cemiplimab, durvalumab, nivolumab and pembrolizumab - have been approved for various tumour types by regulatory agencies across the world. Unprecedented overall survival (OS) gains and improvements in various aspects of patients’ lives have been consistently demonstrated in clinical trial and real-world settings. Various types of patient access or assistance programs were launched to improve affordability and access, however, in most Asia Pacific countries, PD(L)1 inhibitors have been reimbursed for only a few of the approved indications. This means the majority of patients cannot access them through national formularies in places such as Korea, Taiwan and New Zealand. In contrast, patients of different tumour types across Europe with similar healthcare systems have broader and quicker access to PD-(L)1 inhibitors.

OVERVIEW

: Using PD-(L)1 inhibitors as a case study, this panel will explore the current reimbursement listing landscape of innovate cancer treatments focusing on the perspectives of patient advocacy groups, including their current roles in reimbursement processes and the potential for better engagement in processes.

The discussion will be underpinned by desktop research comparing the listing status and landscape of PD-(L)1 inhibitors and mapping current reimbursement listing processes in selected countries. A survey will be carried out among PAGs who have actively involved with cancer patient activities in Korea, Taiwan and New Zealand to understand their involvement in reimbursement listing decisions. From the analysis of this research, focus group discussions will be conducted to share the findings and explore how patient engagement in reimbursement decision-making can be improved to support access to innovative treatments such as PD-(L)1 inhibitors on national reimbursement listings.

The moderator will introduce the topic and panelists in the first five minutes. Each panelist will then take 15 minutes to present their perspectives. Finally, there will be 10 minutes of Q&A and discussion.