Mar 6 • 12:51 UTC 🇬🇷 Greece Naftemporiki

Important changes coming in drug imports via IFET

IFET's CEO announced significant improvements in drug imports, resulting in reduced shortages and waiting times, while the Health Ministry prepares new measures to further cut costs.

The CEO of IFET, Eleftheria Tokatlidi, has revealed that there will be considerable changes in the drug importation process aimed at reducing shortages, prices, and waiting times. Over the past two years, 219 new drug products have been introduced, including 160 new therapies approved by the EMA or FDA. The data indicates that requests for emergency drug imports in 2025 have doubled compared to 2024 due to disruptions in drug circulation, necessitating an adjustment in IFET's operations to meet the rising demand.

The increase in IFET's business operations is a response to the greater needs arising from these challenges, which has also led to the importation of over 50 drugs that were only approved by the FDA and did not receive reimbursement in other European countries. This strategy has allowed IFET to cater to a doubled number of patients based on AMKA registrations, with 91% of these imported drugs pertaining to individual treatments. This approach highlights a shift towards more personalized healthcare solutions despite the regulatory hurdles that may exist in other countries.

Additionally, 69% of the drugs distributed through IFET are orphan drugs for rare diseases, showcasing a commitment to addressing the needs of patients suffering from less common conditions. As the health ministry prepares new cost-reduction measures, it suggests a continued focus on both improving accessibility to essential medications and managing healthcare expenditures efficiently in Greece.

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