President's Cancer Panel Urges Collaboration to Better Align Drug Prices with Value

A report from the President's Cancer Panel released March 13 calls on stakeholders from all segments of oncology to join together to "maximize the value and affordability of cancer drug treatment" while continuing to support investment in research to propel future innovations.

"Cancer patients should not have to choose between paying for their medications or paying their mortgages. For so many, it is truly a matter of life and death," said Barbara K. Rimer, DrPH, chair of the President's Cancer Panel, in a statement. "This is a national imperative that will not be solved by any one sector working alone."

The report, Promoting Value, Affordability, and Innovation in Cancer Drug Treatment, urges action informed by three guiding principles:

• Cancer drug prices should be aligned with their value to patients;
• All patients should have affordable access to appropriate cancer drugs; and
• Investments in science are essential to drive future innovation.

The President's Cancer Panel, established by the National Cancer Act of 1971, is an independent entity charged with monitoring the National Cancer Program and reporting to the President on any barriers to its execution. Learn more about the Panel's role and members.