CSL CEO calls on industry to improve patients' access to medicines

In a keynote address on patients' access to medicines at the eyeforpharma Barcelona summit, chief executive and managing director of Australia’s CSL Limited (ASX: CSL) Paul Perreault told fellow biotech industry leaders that access to life-saving medicines remains a global challenge that cannot be ignored.

"Our role in ensuring patients have access to these medicines is an imperative, not an afterthought. As an industry, we must be a reliable and engaged partner in understanding and overcoming barriers to access," said Mr Perreault.

Global barriers to patient access include regulatory delays of approving new therapies, reimbursement challenges and supply disruptions. In addition, Mr Perreault emphasized the importance of promoting early diagnosis and treatment of conditions to give patients the best opportunity to effectively manage their illnesses.