Our Solution
A Legislative Approach
To address the systemic disincentives for developing cures, Cures Not Treatments proposes a new law focused on appropriately valuing and compensating pharmaceutical companies for the creation of therapies that offer a definitive end to disease. This legislation aims to realign market forces, encouraging innovation towards lasting solutions that benefit patients, the healthcare system, and the economy.
The Targets of Our Campaign
We are laser focused on the targets of our campaign. The President, HHA Director, Your State Senators, and your Congressperson are the decision makers who can enact and then enforce the new law and regulations we seek. The more signatures we can obtain on the petition, the more impact it will have on them.
Key Components of the Proposed Law
Establishment of a Government Agency for Cost-Benefit Analysis:
A government agency, designated by the Health and Human Services Administration (HHA), will be tasked with conducting comprehensive analyses of the long-term healthcare costs associated with managing a disease over a patient's lifetime, compared to the potential cost savings and societal benefits of a cure for that same disease.
This analysis will consider factors such as medication costs, doctor visits, hospitalizations, rehabilitation, lost productivity, and impact on quality of life.
Valuation of Cures Based on Long-Term Savings:
Upon the development and regulatory approval of a therapy deemed a "cure" (to be clearly defined in the legislation, potentially based on criteria of sustained remission, eradication of disease, or significant, lasting improvement in health outcomes), the designated government agency will assess the projected long-term healthcare cost savings it offers compared to existing treatments.
Mandated Reimbursement for Cures:
Insurance companies (both private and public, including Medicare and Medicaid) will be legally required to reimburse pharmaceutical companies a determined percentage of the projected long-term cost savings identified by the government agency.The specific percentage of reimbursement will be established by the legislature, potentially with considerations for factors such as the prevalence and severity of the disease, the novelty and efficacy of the cure, and the overall economic impact. Reimbursement could be provided in a single payment or spread out over the patient's lifetime with payments provided each year after a successful outcome.
Definition of "Cure":
The legislation will include a clear and scientifically sound definition of what constitutes a "cure." This definition should encompass therapies that result in the long-term remission or eradication of a disease, or provide a sustained and significant improvement in health outcomes that eliminates the need for ongoing treatment.
Incentives for Early-Stage Research:
The law may also include provisions for incentivizing early-stage research into potential cures, perhaps through grants or tax credits, to encourage a broader focus on curative pathways.
Review and Adjustment Mechanisms:
The legislation should include mechanisms for periodic review and adjustment of the reimbursement percentages and the definition of "cure" to adapt to advancements in medical science and changes in healthcare economics.
A Call to Action for Lawmakers and the Public
Cures Not Treatments urges lawmakers to consider and champion this vital legislation. By creating a system that fairly values and rewards cures, you can foster innovation, improve patient lives, and create a more sustainable healthcare future. The public's support is also crucial in demonstrating the widespread demand for this change. Sign our petition and share this proposal with your elected officials.