A new report by industry association EFPIA says that health technology assessment bodies often rely too heavily on overall survival data when assessing the value of novel cancer drugs, and should take into account other clinical and patient-reported outcome measures where appropriate.

The two countries want the European Commission’s proposals to be more closely examined for their possible negative effect on pharmaceutical investment decisions. The industry federation EFPIA says it is surprised more EU member states aren’t taking the same stance.

EU ministers say that implementing an appropriate fee structure that is more in line with actual costs will promote innovation in the pharmaceutical sector while ensuring “fair access” to safe and effective medicines for patients.