Bill Giving Dying Patients Easier Access To Experimental Drugs Heads To Governor's Desk
A bill designed to make it easier for dying patients to get unapproved treatments is awaiting a decision by Governor Jerry Brown.
Terminally ill Californians could have easier access to experimental drugs under a measure (AB 159) approved by the state legislature.
It would also exempt insurers and doctors from liability associated with the treatments.
Critics say the bill would give patients false hope, because drugmakers would not be required to provide their products, and insurers would not have to pay for them. What’s more, critics say patients already have access to experimental drugs through the FDA’s compassionate use policy.
But supporters contend that process can take months. They say dying patients can’t wait that long.
At least 21 states have passed so-called "right-to-try" laws.
