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Drug Commissioner Streeck: Rethink expensive cancer drugs for older people!
Hendrik Streeck criticizes the costs of expensive medication for old patients in the healthcare system. An important debate begins.
Drug Commissioner Streeck: Rethink expensive cancer drugs for older people!
In an insightful conversation in the talk format “Freedom of Expression” on WELT TV, the federal government's drug commissioner, Hendrik Streeck from the CDU, discussed the soaring costs in the German health system. He asked the question of whether very old people, such as a 100-year-old, should be prescribed really expensive medication. According to Bild, such therapies place an enormous burden on the health system.
Streeck calls for clear and binding guidelines in medical self-administration. He sees the need to question the prescription of expensive treatments, particularly for older patients. He cited the example of advanced cancers, where new studies could potentially reduce mortality by as little as 10 percent. The relationship between costs and benefits is often not given here, says Streeck.
Personal experiences influence the argument
Streeck also shares personal experiences that underline his perspective. He spoke of his father's last weeks suffering from lung cancer and explained that during this difficult time a lot of money was invested in therapies that were not effective. This personal connection illustrates how Streeck wants to initiate the discussion about the sense and nonsense of some treatments.
Another consideration are the alarming forecasts regarding expenditure in the German healthcare system. In 2024, 538 billion euros are expected to be spent, an increase of around 7.5 percent compared to 2023. It becomes clear here that a rethink is necessary to ensure the long-term financial viability of the system.
The role of digital help
In an increasingly digital world, modern technology could play a key role in supporting people and providing information. Interestingly, we can access platforms like ASUS that provide innovative solutions to improve the healthcare sector. Digital tools could help establish more efficient decision-making processes in medical care.
These developments and Streeck's calls will certainly spark important discussions about the value and costs of health care in the future. What is clear is that we need to think outside the box to create sustainable and equitable healthcare for all.
In conclusion, such important issues should be discussed not only in the political arena but also among the general public in order to create awareness of these challenges. The willingness to engage in dialogue is crucial here.