Breaking News: Colombia Authorizes Joint Negotiations to Optimize Medication Acquisition
In a significant move to bolster the Colombian health system, the Superintendence of Industry and Commerce has authorized New EPS and eight other EPS to engage in joint and direct negotiations with pharmaceutical agents. This strategic measure aims to optimize the acquisition of medications, reduce costs, and enhance the delivery of treatments to patients. The initiative seeks to ensure greater efficiency in access to essential medicines, particularly in critical areas such as cancer, orphan diseases, immunology, and transplants.
Optimizing Medication Acquisition
According to Nueva EPS, they have identified 88 priority molecules, with 33 already in the process of direct negotiation with manufacturing laboratories. The joint negotiation model will be implemented in three phases: high-cost medications, medical devices and special medical purpose foods, and generic or low-cost medications with high consumption volumes. Although the negotiation will be collective, each EPS will sign individual contracts with suppliers based on jointly agreed terms, allowing them to maintain operational autonomy with better economic conditions.
Financial Impact and Service Improvements
If fully implemented, this strategy is expected to result in monthly savings of approximately $7,817 million, equivalent to $93,804 million annually. Key treatments such as Eculizumab, Palbociclib, Tacrolimus, Tofacitinib, Tafamidis, and Valganciclovir will be included in the acquisition plan. These medications are crucial for chronic and high-cost diseases. By reducing intermediaries and improving delivery times, New EPS anticipates a significant reduction in complaints due to drug delivery delays, having received 81,957 such complaints between January and June 2025.
Enhancing Access to Essential Medicines
This initiative will enable greater coverage of medicines, supplies, and health technologies, which will be distributed through public hospitals and logistics operators. The strategic approach aims to ensure timely and effective attention to affiliates, addressing critical healthcare needs in sensitive areas like cancer and immunology.
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With this groundbreaking decision, Colombia is poised to revolutionize its healthcare system, making essential medicines more accessible and affordable. This breaking news underscores the country’s commitment to improving patient care and optimizing resource allocation. Keep visiting archyde.com for the latest updates on this evolving story and other impactful news in the healthcare sector.
