Aligning Investments in Therapeutic Development with Therapeutic Need

This report is a consensus study that analyzes the current state of unmet therapeutic needs in the United States and provides recommendations for aligning investments in therapeutic development with these needs. The report outlines the complexities of quantifying private investment in drug research and development, noting that private funding has increased over time, particularly for late-phase clinical trials. It emphasizes the importance of directing investments to areas with significant unmet needs, such as nutritional deficiencies and mental health disorders. The committee proposes establishing an interagency consortium to track and assess unmet therapeutic needs and recommends that private funders consider disease burden when setting research priorities. Additionally, it discusses the potential of public-private partnerships to address innovation challenges and improve health outcomes. The report aims to guide funders in making informed decisions that align with both population health needs and scientific merit.