Ipsen: GKV's financial stability requires good patient care

Biopharma company Ipsen has voiced concerns regarding planned reforms to Germany's statutory health insurance system (GKV). According to the company, the financial stability of GKV loses its meaning if it does not ensure the best possible care for patients.

Gabriele Kothny, General Manager DACH for Ipsen, stated in an interview that the proposed bill to stabilize GKV's contribution rate (GKV-Beitragssatzstabilisierungsgesetz) could permanently weaken the sector's innovative capacity and economic development in Germany. Kothny believes this could jeopardize Germany's position as an innovation hub.

Kothny emphasized that developing therapies, especially for rare diseases, is inherently risky. New pricing mechanisms and substitutability logics make the German market more unpredictable. She also pointed to increased international competition, citing pricing policies in the U.S. and China's research investments as factors intensifying pressure on Europe.

According to Kothny, GKV reforms could hinder access to innovative therapies, particularly affecting small and vulnerable patient groups. She stressed that innovations are not a luxury but often the only hope for many severely ill individuals, especially those with rare diseases.

Ipsen has operated in Germany for over 40 years, focusing on treatments for oncology, neurology, and rare diseases. The company employs over 200 people in Germany and highlights the importance of stable and predictable operating conditions.