Octapharma joins BIO

Virginia-based Octapharma has become a member of the US trade body the Biotechnology Industry Organization, which it sees as bringing substantial benefits to itself. Among these, says the firm, is the Association's considerable influence on the US legislative process and on regulatory bodies. Representing some of the largest and most research intensive pharmaceutical companies, the BIO's voice is heard where smaller groups are not. With reimbursement of biologicals becoming a significant problem in patient access to product, this influence will be critical in providing essential input into federal and state reimbursement policies and resolving access issues, says Octapharma.

Additionally, it notes, the BIO has made a concerted effort to develop a constituency of plasma derivative manufacturers. For those producers which are currently members, the association has become a leading source of advanced information on government and private policies relevant to the plasma derivative industry. The BIO also coordinates its policy position with patient groups though its Outreach/Alliance Development Committee and other mechanisms that host regular briefings, tours and recognition events for health advocacy groups.

Finally, Octapharma believes that its decision to join is consistent with its future plans and with its new mission statement, "for the safe and optimal use of human proteins." With much of the BIO membership focusing on leading-edge research in genetic modifications of peptides and proteins, bioprocessing, and bioinformatics, there would appear to be great opportunities for commercial collaboration and cross-fertilization, it says.