Shanghai CPPCC Member Urges Pfizer to Lower Paxlovid Price Amid Failed Inclusion in National Reimbursement Drug List

Pfizer’s antiviral small molecule drug failed to be included in the National Medical Insurance Drug List due to an excessively high bid. Zheng Junhua, a member of the Shanghai Municipal Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and Party Secretary of Renji Hospital, called for a price reduction of Paxlovid. He believes that the development of pharmaceuticals is primarily for treating diseases and saving lives, and between commercial interests and saving lives, enterprises should pay more attention to patients' needs. Zheng Junhua also mentioned, “If there is no price reduction, and if necessary, some policies could be appropriately relaxed so that ordinary people can access this drug.” (Kankan News)