Dominican Rheumatology Society seeks expansion of high-cost drug fund

The Dominican Society of Rheumatology (SDR) has requested that the next stages of the High-Cost Medication Fund (Fomac) include a broader range of diseases requiring specialized treatments. While the organization acknowledged the National Council of Social Security (CNSS) approval of initial coverage for 13 diseases, it emphasized the need to expand the scope to assist more patients with rheumatic and immunomediated conditions.

The current phase of the fund covers 16 catastrophic diseases, including breast cancer, lung cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and spinal muscular atrophy. The SDR noted that while six relevant medications for rheumatic diseases are included in this stage, the real benefit depends on access conditions, eligibility criteria, and continuous supply.

Proposed conditions for future expansion include systemic lupus erythematosus, ankylosing spondylitis, scleroderma, Sjögren's disease, high-risk osteoporosis, multiple sclerosis, and systemic vasculitis.