I will be talking about t'Hoen's presentation on pool medical patents.
Years ago, the cost for HIV drug cocktails was about $12,000 per person per year — meaning that people in wealthy countries had access to them while those in the developing world did not. India, however, did not recognize medical patents at the time and companies there began producing generic formulations. Because of so much supply of these drugs, the cost dropped to $350 per patient per year. As a result, many lives were saved and more medication were available.
However, in 1995, the Word Trade Organization instituted new rules, calling for all countries to ensure 20-year patents for new medications. Since then, the number of patents in the area of ARVs (or the area that cures HIV) has skyrocketed.
t'Hoen then goes on to talk about her own solutions and ideas. I really liked her views on this issue. The idea she presents here is quite interesting. It led me to think that maybe some industries shouldn't have patents.
Great summary! Maybe more analysis?
ReplyDeletePatents and changes like these are helpful in helping people all across the world. I agree with you that patent legislation and rules should be reviewed often. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDelete