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<p>The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and NHS England are
leading the dialogue with Vertex Pharmaceuticals on access to their portfolio of cystic
fibrosis medicines, including Orkambi and Symkevi.</p><p>NHS England has proposed
an offer that would represent the largest ever commitment of its kind in the history
of the National Health Service - in the region of £500 million over five years - and
would provide immediate access for patients to all Vertex licensed medicines in advance
of assessment by NICE. The Government fully supports the approach that NICE and NHS
England are adopting. It is crucial that patients have access to the most effective
and innovative medicines at a price that represents value to the NHS.</p><p>My Rt.
hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care held a meeting on 11
March with all the parties to discuss how best to reach a deal so that people with
cystic fibrosis and their families can benefit as soon as possible. Vertex, NICE and
NHS England subsequently met on Thursday 21 March and have agreed to continue discussions.</p>
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