Octapharma joins US biotech group BIO

Octapharma, a US provider of human plasma-based pharmaceuticals, is to become a member of the Biotechnology Industry Organization, which it expects will bring substantial benefits to the company. Among these 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," noted Octapharma.

Additionally, it points out, the "BIO has made a concerted effort to develop a constituency of plasma derivative manufacturers. For those plasma derivative manufacturers who are currently members, [the] BIO 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 BIO is consistent with its future plans and with its new mission statement, 'for the safe and optimal use of human proteins'."