MEPs and EU pharma industry debate commitment to deliver 21st Century health care systems in times of crisis

European policymakers and the pharmaceutical industry need to work collaboratively to ensure the current financial crisis does not stand in the way of delivering health care systems fit for the 21st century. Representatives of the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA), representing research-based drugmakers in Europe, and Members of the European Parliament involved in health care issues discussed a common agenda to shape the future of health care in Europe this week.

Speaking in the European Parliament at a meeting entitled "Towards a healthier Europe,' together with MEP Françoise Grossetete, Arthur Higgins, president of the EFPIA and chief executive of Bayer HealthCare said: 'Our health care systems will not be sustainable in the face of Europe's financial and demographic crisis, unless they are subject to radical reform. The European pharmaceutical industry is fully committed to work with governments and other stakeholders to ensure we can avoid a crisis in health care and instead develop health care systems that are fit for the 21st century.'

Mme Grossetete added: 'This is a time of considerable challenges for Europe and its citizens. Our health care systems and policies must be able to respond accordingly. We will ensure the European Parliament plays its full part in making the correct response a priority for the benefit of Europe's citizens and patients.'