Healthcare Accessibility and Big Pharma

Practice flashcards based on key topics discussed in the lecture about healthcare accessibility and the influence of Big Pharma.

What were common health issues before the 19th century?

Poor public health infrastructure, low life expectancy, lack of medical knowledge, stark healthcare inequality, and dominance of infectious diseases.

What was a significant medical intervention method prior to modern medicine?

Based mainly on the balance of humors, treatments included blood letting, purging, and herbal remedies.

What did the Germ Theory by Louis Pasteur contribute to?

It helped establish the basis for modern microbiology and improved public health interventions.

What are some key players in the pharmaceutical industry?

Companies such as Johnson & Johnson, Merck & Co., Pfizer, Novartis, and Sanofi.

What major issue arises from high drug prices according to the lecture?

Affordability and access to essential medicines are major concerns.

What is the impact of TRIPS on drug patents? What does it stand for?

It allows drugs to be patented for 20 years, restricting access to generics during that period. Drug can also be modified to extend patent years. Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property.

What was the financial performance of the pharmaceutical industry in 2002?

The industry made $400 billion in sales, with $36 billion in profit from the top 10 companies.

What is a consequence of Big Pharma's focus on profits?

Neglect of diseases considered unprofitable, like malaria and sleeping sickness.

What solutions were suggested for improving healthcare access?

Break profit monopolies, strengthen research on neglected diseases, and enhance intercontinental collaboration.

What were public health issues prior to 19th/20th century?

Widespread infectious diseases, lack of sanitation, and poor living conditions. Outbreaks like cholera and typhoid

What was Healthcare Access & Inequality based on?

• Based on class & Affordability

• Poor people relied on almshouses or hospices

• Characterized by care and not cure

• Private physicians available for those who can afford

How does the Hippocratic Oath's principle of 'do no harm' relate to the pharmaceutical industry practices discussed?

The ethical duty to 'do no harm' contrasts with the industry's focus on profit and the TRIPS agreement, which limits access to affordable generics and leads to the neglect of unprofitable diseases, potentially causing harm to vulnerable populations.