A new short report published today by Health Action International (HAI) Europe, an EPHA member, titled "Does the European Patients’ Forum represent patient or industry interests? A case study in the need for mandatory financial disclosure" reveals how the European Patients’ Forum legitimacy has been taken for granted despite its lack of transparency and close links to the pharmaceutical industry.
HAI Europe argues that the case of the European Patients’ Forum demonstrates the need for rules on financial disclosure - who is funding NGOs and lobbyists - to be made mandatory, not voluntary.
The European Transparency Initiative proposed by Commissioner Kallas must be based on clear and enforceable rules on financial disclosure.
HAI Europe also argues that the Commission and the European Medicines Agency should reconsider their relationship with the European Patients’ Forum. It is vital that the voice of patients is heard when decisions are being taken about medicines and health. The Commission and the European Medicines Agency should consult with groups which are accountable, transparent and independent of pharmaceutical industry financing.
EPHA’s related links:
