The chief pharmacist of the Hospital Authority, William Chui Chun-ming, announced the authority is streamlining the process for introducing new drugs by eliminating the dual review mechanism.
The new procedure will involve direct approval by the Drug Advisory Committee (DAC) at the Hospital Authority headquarters, potentially reducing the time it takes to introduce new drugs from 10 months to just 5 months.
During a radio program today, Chui highlighted the establishment of a cost assessment committee by the Hospital Authority. This committee, comprising health economic experts, is tasked with evaluating the therapeutic effects of drugs, reviewing the cost-effectiveness of new medications, and negotiating prices with pharmaceutical manufacturers.
Chui also noted that public hospitals are currently accelerating the introduction of new drugs. He emphasized that drug research in Hong Kong not only influences the local market but also impacts drug introduction strategies in mainland China and Asia.
He expressed confidence in Hong Kong's ability to negotiate effectively, ensuring both the quality and affordability of medicine.
