Innovative Medicines Fund launched to enable early access to cutting-edge drugs

NHS patients in England can now receive early access to more-cutting edge medicines through a new fund.

The Innovative Medicines Fund (IMF) is similar to the existing Cancer Drugs Fund (CDF), fast-tracking treatments, even if they are expensive and have not yet been approved for routine NHS use, and will cover potentially life-saving drugs for genetic and rare diseases.

The IMF, like the CDF, will mean a newly approved drug could be prescribed immediately, prior to final recommendations being drawn up by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

Health leaders hope funds like these will improve the lives of many who might otherwise miss out.

Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid, said “I want NHS patients to be the first in the world to access the most promising and revolutionary treatments that could extend or save their lives.

“The launch of the Innovative Medicines Fund delivers another manifesto pledge and will fast-track cutting-edge medicines to adults and children, to give people renewed hope for a better future.”

Chadwick Lawrence’s specialist team of clinical negligence lawyers have years of experience in medical negligence claims, providing support and guidance after life-changing events.  Not only do we represent clients in Yorkshire, but because of our reputation we also represent clients nationally.

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Posted by Tony May, Partner/head of Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (tonymay@chadlaw.co.uk ), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

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