[Ip-health] (no subject)

[George M. Carter]

To Amir: First, where is the evidence for the statement that in countries 
where patents exist, access is easier?

The crux of the issue is whether a patent is used as a shield for price 
gouging. For many PWAs, access IS restricted, even in the developing 
nations, as a result of price gouging by pharmaceutical companies. Indeed, 
people without insurance in the United States (around 40 million people) 
often are forced to pay MUCH higher prices for drugs than hospitals, for 
example. Access to care is dependent on price and income.

I don't think anyone would argue that poverty is a major factor in access, 
no matter where one is. There is, however, much greater poverty in Africa, 
southeast Asia, India and elsewhere. Another critical barrier to access is 
the corruption in so many governments, including the United States and 
European countries.

Price gouging remains a central problem. Lack of competition, an inherent 
trait of patenting, enabled this price gouging to occur. Without access to 
competitively priced drug treatment, the bar is raised well above the 
ability of, I'd guess, 90% of HIV+ individuals in resource-poor nations.

I look forward to hearing your response.

George M. Carter