In a major step forward for patients with rare diseases and immune disorders, Senators Mark Kelly and Thom Tillis have teamed up across party lines to introduce the PLASMA Act, legislation intended to ensure these patients can continue to access necessary plasma-based medicines. Noting the rising costs and supply challenges currently faced by individuals reliant on these therapies, the bipartisan effort is aimed squarely at making treatments not only available but also affordable.
"Patients with rare diseases and immune disorders rely on plasma-based medicines to stay healthy, but right now, too many are facing rising costs and supply challenges," Kelly said, in a statement made by Kelly's Senate website. "By protecting access to these lifesaving medicines, we’re making sure patients can get the treatments they need affordably and without disruption." Echoing his sentiments, Tillis highlighted the imperative need to allow patients to continuously have access to the life-saving plasma-based medicines they depend on.
The newly proposed PLASMA Act would bring plasma-derived medicines under an existing phase-in process for drug pricing currently in place for other pharmaceuticals as part of the Inflation Reduction Act. According to the Senator's Office, starting in 2032, manufacturers would be required to pay the full rebate amount following yearly increases, offering a safeguard against excessive price hikes for patients dependent on these medicines.
In the United States, the reality is that over 125,000 patients with rare and life-threatening diseases depend on sustained access to plasma-derived medicinal products. These individuals face chronic health conditions such as Primary Immunodeficiencies, Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy, and Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. Often with no alternative therapies available. The PLASMA Act finds support not only on Capitol Hill but also among top health organizations. Scott Santarella, President & CEO of the Alpha-1 Foundation, told Kelly's Senate website, "It is vital for our community to have continued access to this life-saving plasma therapy that they receive on a weekly basis."
Endorsing the PLASMA Act are distinguished national and international health entities, including the Immune Deficiency Foundation, Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association, Alpha-1 Foundation, and the GBS | CIDP Foundation International. Their backing signals the critical importance of such legislation and the positive impact it promises for thousands of Americans with rare diseases.
