OCTOBER 2023LIFE SCIENCES REVIEW9surveillance data. Given that microbiology surveillance data can be seen as a kind of real-world evidence (RWE) agencies can also draw on guidelines on the use of RWE for reimbursement decision making.The reimbursement agencies need to adapt the methodological guidelines on the standard economic evaluation framework to accommodate the different value elements of antibiotics. More research is needed to assess the societal value of antibiotics in general and how the value elements of antibiotics can be aggregated.The economic evaluations of new antibiotics submitted to HTAbodies attempt to incorporate value elements of antibiotics for the society, not only for patients. Also, an economic evaluation needs to consider various modes of employing the new antibiotic, including its use as a last resort treatment.The existing economic models for new innovative antibiotics have limitations mainly due to the urgent need to reduce resistance through a responsible use. Therefore, volumes are limited and the business case often negative.A cured patient is not only the manifestation of the success of an individual treatment, but it is also the demonstration of a value to the society at large in the fight of AMR. The standard economic evaluation today under-values antibiotics because this beneficial effect to the society is not considered. On the contrary, the empiric use of existing antibiotics triggers disease transmission and resistance development.Such an approach is required to maintain the value of antibiotics for current patients, for future patients and for enabling medical and surgical procedures that rely on antibiotic prophylaxis. An assessment of the societal value of antibiotics will also act as a strong incentive for pharmaceutical companies to invest in the research and development of new antibiotics. AMR compromises the success of many medical interventions that depend on the effective treatment and prevention of infection
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