Dutch Political Parties Urged to Invest in Innovative Medicines Before Elections
The Hague, Wednesday, 9 July 2025.
The VIG calls on Dutch political parties to prioritize funding for innovative medicines ahead of the 2025 elections, highlighting their potential to reduce healthcare staff needs by 14%.
The Role of Innovative Medicines in Healthcare
Innovative medicines hold the promise of revolutionizing healthcare by reducing the demand for healthcare personnel by up to 14%, as reported by a PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) analysis [1]. This reduction is primarily attributed to the capacity of new pharmaceuticals and vaccines to prevent diseases and improve the quality of life, therefore lessening the burden on healthcare systems [1]. The Vereniging Innovatieve Geneesmiddelen (VIG), an association representing the innovative medicines sector in the Netherlands, emphasizes that investments in these areas are crucial for the sustainability of the healthcare system, which is currently under significant pressure from staffing shortages [1].
Call to Action Ahead of Dutch Elections
As the Netherlands prepares for the upcoming Tweede Kamer elections on October 29, 2025, the VIG is urging political parties to prioritize the development and support of innovative medical solutions [1]. The association’s plea highlights the need for policy that accelerates the introduction of innovations to patients and healthcare practitioners, strengthens the investment climate for the pharmaceutical sector, and ensures consistent budgeting for vaccines [1]. Without such measures, the potential benefits of these innovations could remain unutilized, risking continued strain on the healthcare infrastructure [1].
Economic and Societal Impact of Advanced Pharmaceuticals
The impetus for these innovations extends beyond healthcare, as they also hold significant economic benefits. By improving health outcomes and reducing the need for medical interventions, innovative medicines enhance labor productivity, providing a dual advantage to both the economy and society [1]. Such advancements, supported by strategic investments, could lead to a healthier society, representing substantial value for patients, healthcare systems, and the broader community [1].
The Imperative for Policy Support
The VIG emphasizes that seizing the opportunity presented by innovative medicines requires consistent and committed policy support [1]. Recommendations include fast-tracking innovation access, bolstering the innovation ecosystem, and expanding medical prevention roles [1]. This strategic approach aims to build a robust foundation for a healthcare system capable of adapting to future challenges, including demographic shifts and technological advancements [1].