ACSM becomes APSM
15 th NOVEMBER 2011 The ACSM has changed its name to the Association of Pharmaceutical Specials Manufacturers (APSM) to reflect the clinical nature of its members’ products and services. As the trade association representing the interests of companies involved in the manufacture of unlicensed medicines, the role and importance of the APSM has grown in recent months as the organisation has provided a conduit for information and advice to the DH in the lead up to the Specials Tariff (published this month). Specials account for around 1% of the prescription budget but this can be made up of more than 75,000 different formulations – each designed to meet the specific need of a patient where a licensed medicine is not available. Said APSM Chairman, Alan Krol, “Specials serve a vital clinical need, it really is tailored and personalised medicine in every way – no other pharmaceutical manufacturer gets closer to the patient.” Said APSM Vice Chair, Sharon Griffiths, “Heightened