I-MAK

Create a public interest team of attorneys and scientists.

Other | United States of America | Capacity Building |

http://www.i-mak.org/

Overview

Create a public interest team of attorneys and scientists who ensure that patents do not obstruct access to affordable medicines for poor patients in developing countries.Initiative for Medicines Access & Knowledge (I MAK) envisions a world in which lifesaving medicines are readily available without excessive individual or social cost. We believe that families should not have to choose between putting food on their table and getting the medicines they need to get well. Our team of lawyers pharmaceutical scientists and health experts is dedicated to reducing drug prices by solving the drug patent problem. What s the problem? 10 billion people worldwide do not have access to basic healthcare and people worldwide are not receiving lifesaving treatments due to skyrocketing drug prices. For example 85% of Americans diagnosed with hepatitis C are currently not receiving treatment. Too often pharmaceutical companies apply for unmerited patents as a tactic to block generic competition and keep prices high. As a result companies artificially inflate the price of treatment and families struggle to afford the medicines they need for their loved ones. The patent system in the U.S. and in countries around the world disproportionately upholds private interests over public good. By challenging and ultimately repairing the patent system we can ensure people can get the lifesaving medicine they need to get well. We believe drug affordability and access is part of a broader movement for economic equity. I MAK is challenging the pharmaceutical industries anti competitive practices that for too long have been leaving communities behind. What are we doing about it? I MAK helps patients consumers governments and patent offices to create systems that support a competitive market where the needs of patients come first. Our team uses legal strategies to lower drug prices conducts data driven research and investigations to expose the problems and identify solutions and educates consumers. By elevating the voices of patients and their families we ensure that patients are at the frontline so that they can get the medicines they need.