Doctors and Politicians Unite to Push for Stricter Regulations on Cancer Medications

Doctors and politicians are coming together to support stricter regulations regarding cancer medications. The new government is urged to ensure that new cancer drugs undergo independent evaluations to eliminate ineffective options. Without such measures, costly treatments could strain hospital budgets substantially, according to oncologists and the Dutch Healthcare Institute.

                               

There is also a call for easier research into alteranative dosages that differ from those recommended by pharmaceutical companies, as this might reduce side effects and lower expenses. Although plans are already in place, the urgency for action is critical, as highlighted by the healthcare community.

 

An investigation by NOS and Nieuwsuur has revealed a significant rise in spending on cancer treatments, which has doubled in five years from 635 million euros to 1.3 billion euros. With hundreds of new, expensive cancer drugs expected to enter the market soon, there is hope, especially since at least half of the population in the Netherlands will face cancer. However, not all treatments live up to expectations, and costs continue to escalate.

                                            

 

“If we continue as we are, the system will collapse,” warns Gabe Sonke, an internist-oncologist at the Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital and a professor at the University of Amsterdam. He emphasizes that this could hinder proper patient care and access to necessary medications.

                                          

The Healthcare Institute, which advises the government on covered health services, is increasingly aware of the urgency. Chairman Sjaak Wijma states, “The number of patients requiring extended care is rising, while healthcare resources are becoming scarcer. Tough decisions are more critical than ever.”

 

Despite these challenges, access to cancer medications will not be restricted. Physicians aim to differentiate effective treatments from those that are not. Oncologist Hans Westgeest from Amphia Hospital notes that some new drugs are marketed as premium options, but in reality, they may offer limited benefits. Often, these medications are effective for only about 30 percent of patients, while many others experience only side effects.

 

Dutch doctors have been leading efforts to find more targeted medication approaches. Their research has shown that similar outcomes can be achieved with lower doses, resulting in fewer serious side effects. Sonke has, for instance, improved treatments for breast cancer.

 

This method not only enhances patient quality of life but has already saved tens of millions of euros by reducing medication use. A report released today by the Healthcare Institute highlights that this approach represents the future of healthcare.

 

Outgoing healthcare minister Pia Dijkstra has initiated steps toward reform. In an April letter to Parliament, she outlined plans for a new approval system for medications. This system aims to speed up the availability of new drugs while also evaluating if lower doses or shorter treatment periods are equally effective. If medications fail to meet expectations post-approval, they may be removed from the insured package.