The Harkin-Alexander bill proposes adding Ebola to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s priority review voucher program, a program which incentives developing new drugs for “neglected tropical diseases.” Ebola is currently not listed as a qualifying disease.
“The world is in desperate need of a vaccine to prevent Ebola and a drug to treat it,” Sen. Alexander said. “This bill will help fight Ebola with a tool that encourages the development of necessary but unprofitable drugs — offering a reward for drugmakers who invest the time and resources to develop drugs to treat, and hopefully cure, Ebola.”
The senators plan to introduce the bill when Congress reconvenes.
More articles on Ebola:
IBM to help slow Ebola outbreak in West Africa
A communications culture can prevent Ebola-like confusion
Johns Hopkins to coordinate Ebola personal protective equipment workshop
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.