Mister Minister of Health; let us collaborate to fix healthcare costs today!

Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin recently highlighted the rapid rise in healthcare costs in Indonesia, with national health spending growing at a faster rate compared to GDP. He warned that the healthcare system would not be sustainable if solutions to create more transparency in costs are not implemented.

His renewed claim that drug prices are "300% to 400% higher than Malaysia" raises the same questions. Why would the innovative pharmaceutical industry introduce innovation in a market hegemonized by generics (80% share) only to make it inaccessible?

For International Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group (IPMG) , innovation in pharmaceuticals, is critical—it saves lives, improves quality of care, and drives progress. But what’s the value of an innovative drug or treatment if it’s not accessible to those who need it the most? As an industry, we invest in research, development, and breakthroughs. However, innovation becomes meaningless if it's priced out of reach for eligible patients due to lack of transparency, inefficiencies, lack of reimbursement or regulatory bottlenecks. True innovation is only impactful when it is accessible and affordable, ensuring that patients—especially those in need—can benefit from it.

At International Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group (IPMG) , we believe that the debate over drug prices needs to be grounded in comprehensive research, not just anecdotal cases. We call for a value-based approach to healthcare and a focus on the interventions that deliver the most effective, efficient and sustainable outcomes.

The recently launched IPMG Manifesto advocates for a comprehensive pharmaceutical strategy to enhance Indonesia's healthcare system and catalyze economic growth. Time for action is now. Let us to make the case for supporting a shift towards affordable and quality healthcare for all.

#Indonesia #UHC #AffordableHealthcare #InnovationForAll #ValueBasedHealthcare #CollaborationForChange #IPMGManifesto