APSM

In response to an article in The Daily Telegraph June 22 nd , the APSM, Association of Pharmaceutical Specials Manufacturers, has spoken out in support of the Specials Tariff, a system that was introduced by the DOH to create a more transparent process for reimbursing specials, linking the cost of reimbursement to the cost of the product, while providing value for money for the NHS.  Since the introduction of the Specials Tariff in November 2011, the average cost per item has fallen by 25% (from £180 to £135).   The Specials Tariff was set using a system similar to that used for the calculation of the price of category M generics.  Under a memorandum of understanding (MOU), licensed specials manufacturers provided sales information to the DOH, which has been used to set a reimbursement price that includes margin.     These prices take into the account the high quality manufacturing processes that must be adhered to by companies wishing to supply products listed on the Specials

In response to an article in The Daily Telegraph on Friday 21 st June, The Association of Pharmaceutical Specials Manufacturers, APSM, has stated that it strongly condemns any activity that would result in overcharging for supply of medicines to the NHS. The Daily Telegraph article alleges activity to overcharge on medicines, based on interviews with individuals working in the specials industry. The allegations in the Daily Telegraph article, if proven, would not be considered acceptable practice at any level and would not be reflective of the vast majority of specials manufacturers in the UK.  The APSM, which represents manufacturers of unlicensed medicines (specials) within the UK, has worked closely with the Department of Health in recent years to develop a more transparent system of pricing and supply that protects the interests of patients and the NHS.  The specials sector provides a vitally important service and those involved take a responsible and long term appro