PAGB has welcomed the inclusion of reclassification within the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency's (MHRA) 2030 Strategy that was published on 14 October.
The MHRA aims to be more patient-centred, help them get faster access to safe, effective treatments, and have more data-connectivity and global influence.
It has set out plans to translate cutting-edge scientific and technological innovation into better health outcomes for patients across all four nations of the UK.
The consumer healthcare organisation said reclassification has a key role to play in improving access to medicines, empowering people to better manage their health and supporting the wider healthcare system.
PAGB CEO Michelle Riddalls said: “The inclusion of reclassification within the MHRA’s new strategy should not be underestimated. It represents an important opportunity to improve access to medicines, support self-care and help ensure that people can access the right treatments when they need them.
"This is a positive step forward and we will continue to work collaboratively with the MHRA, key stakeholders and our members to support the delivery of this ambition to help realise the full potential of Reclassification for consumers, patients and the wider healthcare system.”
PAGB also welcomed comments from James Frith, Minister for Health Innovation, which reinforced the importance of a modern, agile regulatory system that supports innovation, economic growth and timely access to healthcare solutions.
In his remarks, Frith set out that the UK should be a beacon for regulation done at pace and look to make the rules and not just follow them. This provides a strong foundation for PAGB to progress the reclassification proposal, improve access to medicines and support self-care.
The launch event highlighted the important role the MHRA will play in supporting the UK’s life sciences sector, with a focus on ensuring regulation keeps pace with scientific and technological advances and strengthening the UK’s position as a global destination for innovation.
PAGB said it looks forward to continuing to work with the MHRA, government and wider stakeholders to help deliver the ambitions set out in the strategy.
