Healthcare Systems All Across the World Struggling: Innovative Medicine Not the Problem but Part of the Solution

Peter Ahnesorg, the general manager of Roche Hungary believes this era presents a true opportunity as investment in innovative medicine not only presents opportunities for patients and their families but creates real value to society and ultimately bolsters economic growth. For Hungary, this is not just a health imperative, but an economic and strategic one.

Roche advocates for greater national spending on healthcare innovation. In concrete terms, how does increased investment in innovative medicines tangibly transform patient outcomes and the Hungarian healthcare system?

Hungary’s public healthcare expenditure is currently under 5% of its GDP. This figure is considerably lower than the EU average and falls below the levels seen in countries like Poland and Slovenia. In several European studies, published in the post-COVID years, it is well documented that every Forint invested in innovative medicines translates into multiple Forints in GDP growth. For patients, this investment translates directly into access to novel treatments that can significantly improve, extend, and even save lives. As illustrated by Roche’s novel medicines, these advancements represent paradigm shifts in managing complex diseases across oncology, neurology, ophthalmology, and other critical areas. In the next 5 years we have the potential to bring up to 18 new medicines to patients in Hungary. The avalanche of chronic diseases means that more and more working Hungarian’s are pulled out of the workforce, and can’t care for their parents, children or grandchildren. Addressing this with more investment and most importantly, more rapid reimbursement of novel medicines, would have a significant productivity effect on the Hungarian economy, as well as saving healthcare costs due to fewer hospitalizations, less complex surgeries and less need for long-term care.

Roche emphasizes the need for effective valuation of innovative medicines, particularly by including societal value benefits. How do current valuation approaches in Hungary impact patient access to cutting-edge treatments, and what specific policy reforms would Roche like to see to ensure these transformative medicines are recognized for their true worth and long-term impact?

Currently, the valuation of innovative medicines in Hungary faces challenges that can impede patient access to the latest treatments. Roche advocates that a broader picture must be assessed to encompass the societal value of these therapies. This includes considering not just the immediate cost of a drug, but also its long-term impact on a patient’s quality of life, their ability to remain in the workforce, and the reduced strain on caregivers and the social support system. In my view, the creation of a Ministry of Health would be a tremendous step forward that would help to proactively shape a sustainable system for the Hungarian people.

If there is something I learned in the six months I’ve lived in Hungary now, it is that there are many young, well educated, highly skilled Hungarians who are proud of their country and would love to build their future here. Access to great healthcare is something that matters deeply to this new generation of Hungarians. 

You’ve highlighted the importance of positioning life sciences as a strategic sector for the Hungarian economy. Why is that, given most R&D and production of medicines is done elsewhere?

Positioning the life sciences as a strategic sector is crucial for Hungary’s economic future, particularly given that currently a significant portion of pharmaceutical research and manufacturing occurs elsewhere. A thriving life sciences ecosystem attracts foreign investment, and it is a sector that has been specifically identified by the EU as an opportunity boosting Europe’s competitiveness.

Hungary has well educated professionals in the life sciences, the country is exporting Medical Doctors to all over Europe and even training young German doctors. I believe this momentum can be turned into a tremendous growth opportunity.

As Roche, Hungary already today is an important hub for clinical research. We run more than 50 clinical trials with more than 100 sites all across the country studying 20 innovative medicines in clinical practice. This not only generates jobs and offers Hungarian scientists and patients access to cutting edge medicine, but it also is a significant financial investment. Sadly, we’ve seen that the overall number of clinical trials in Hungary has been declining in recent years. Ensuring the routine standard of care in Hungary is aligned with the rest of the world and not trailing behind, is in my view a key element to ensuring Hungary remains attractive for clinical trials in the future.

Digitalization and artificial intelligence are rapidly reshaping healthcare globally. How is Roche, particularly here in Hungary, embracing these technologies to enhance patient care, accelerate drug discovery and access, or improve operational efficiency?

Digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) are poised to revolutionize healthcare delivery, and Roche is actively embracing these technologies in Hungary. We are currently in a three month phase training every one of our almost 3000 employees in Hungary to embed our AI tools into their everyday work routine. From leveraging AI to accelerate drug discovery and optimize clinical trial design to developing digital health solutions that empower patients to manage their conditions more effectively, the potential is vast. For example, in our manufacturing operations, AI has already helped to reduce times to transfer production from one site to another from 18 months down to just 6 months.

One area where I am concretely excited about the opportunities of AI here locally, is translation to Hungarian. In the past we had to spend significant resources to translate many different documents and materials for authorities, physicians and patients. With the increasing power of AI, I think this will be something where we can save resources and invest this money and talent  in areas where there is a bigger patient impact.

AI-powered diagnostics can enable earlier, cheaper, automated and more accurate disease detection, leading to better treatment outcomes. Digital platforms can facilitate more efficient data sharing and analysis, providing valuable insights for public health initiatives and resource allocation. Importantly, AI tools can also help to improve communication with patients and access to GP consultations, particularly in rural areas.

You’ve recently posted on LinkedIn that the number of clinical trials is declining across Europe. Why is this so concerning and what should we do to change this trend?

As I already mentioned above, I think this is connected to the fact that many innovative medicines only come to Hungarian routine medical care years after they are approved in Europe, the US and China. Hungary has proven in the past that we can be a powerhouse when it comes to clinical research, several companies have regional hubs for clinical research located in Budapest and Hungarian scientists and clinicians are well educated and reliable partners to us. Having said that, we live in a world where competition is increasing – also for clinical trials. With the US, China, Germany and other big countries demanding quotas in clinical trials, we will need to create an ecosystem here in Hungary that allows us to stand out in the region. Thankfully the Hungarian Investment Promotion Agency (Hipa) has understood this and I was pleased to hear Istvan Jo— (CEO of Hipa) underscore the determination of the government to collaborate with innovative R&D focused companies and boost clinical research in Hungary.

How do you see Roche actively partnering with the Hungarian government and healthcare community to implement these strategic imperatives and ensure sustainable access to groundbreaking innovations?

Roche Hungary’s overarching vision is to be a key partner in shaping a healthier future for Hungary. This vision is founded on a set of interconnected pillars–enhanced investment in innovation, equitable and sustainable valuation of medicines, the strategic integration of technology, and the acknowledgment of the life sciences as an essential driver of economic growth. With our innovative medicines and our more than 40-year history here in Budapest, I am convinced that we are part of the solution and key to future growth.

To achieve this, Roche is committed to actively collaborating with the Hungarian government, healthcare providers, and the scientific community. By working together, I am convinced it is possible to ensure that all Hungarians have access to the groundbreaking treatments of today and the cures of tomorrow.

The shift from a costly, reactive system to a proactive, value-driven one is already underway. Roche’s vision for Hungary isn’t just about supplying innovative medicines; it’s about embedding health and the life sciences as a core national asset. By strategically aligning investment with fair valuation, rapidly embracing digital and AI tools, and fostering deep collaboration across all stakeholders, Hungary can and must transform its healthcare system into a powerful engine for economic growth and societal resilience. The answers to these crucial questions–and the key to a healthier, more prosperous future–now lie in our collective will to act.

This article was first published in the Pharma Industry Review 2025 / 2. print issue.