Rep. Leonard Lance (R-N.J.) participated in a roundtable discussion on Tuesday with patient advocates, medical innovators and academics to explore ways to advance biomedical innovation.
The roundtable was organized through the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s 21st Century Cures Initiative. The initiative aims to explore how government programming, regulations and research can be leveraged to help achieve medical breakthroughs.
“The 21st Century Cures Initiative is breaking barriers in its effort to work effectively and efficiently to ensure there is no gap between 21st century science and the Washington regulatory process, to support medical research and to keep the United States at the global center of biomedical innovation,” Lance, a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, said. “This will make a lasting difference in the lives of many and provide patients with the best possible care, treatment and support.”
Celgene Corporation President and Chief Operating Officer Mark Alles said his company has benefited from existing regulations and policies like orphan drug incentives and the FDA special protocol assessment mechanism for reviewing and agreeing to the design of phase three chemical trials.
“We enthusiastically support the goals of the 21st Century Cures Initiative and will continue to work with government to build a policy environment that supports innovation leading to breakthrough therapies for patients with serious unmet medical needs,” Alles said.
Since the 21st Century Cures Initiative was launched, the committee has held a series of hearings and roundtable discussions on topics like the role of incentives, technology and healthcare, clinical trials, data sharing, and personalized medicine.
“Remarkable advancements in technology and innovation are transforming health care and presenting a huge opportunity to advance new cures and treatments,” Lance said. “Many young people will see cures in their lifetime for some of today’s greatest public health challenges. To do this right we need first-hand experience and testimony from people who fight this battle every day. We need the ideas and contributions from patients, health care professionals, innovators and those advocating for a loved one.”