Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant impact of the inclusion of targeted lung cancer drug Osimertinib (Aozhi) in the national medical insurance directory, which has drastically reduced its price and improved access for patients, thereby enhancing their quality of life and health outcomes [2][3][5]. Group 1: Drug Pricing and Accessibility - Osimertinib was initially priced over 50,000 yuan per box, making it unaffordable for many patients before being included in the national medical insurance directory in 2018, which reduced the price to 15,300 yuan [2]. - The price of Osimertinib has continued to decrease through negotiations, reaching 4,966.2 yuan per box in 2022, allowing patients to afford the medication [2][3]. - The reimbursement system for outpatient specific drugs in the province offers approximately 85% coverage for employee insurance and 80% for rural residents' insurance, significantly lowering out-of-pocket expenses for patients [3]. Group 2: Impact on Patients - The reduction in drug costs has transformed the financial burden for patients, with some reporting monthly expenses dropping from five-digit figures to three-digit figures, thus restoring their dignity and hope [5][6]. - The number of patients benefiting from Osimertinib has significantly increased since its inclusion in the insurance program, demonstrating the positive effects of the policy on patient access to essential medications [5]. - The article emphasizes that the changes in drug pricing not only alleviate financial stress but also enhance the overall quality of life for patients, allowing them to focus on their health rather than financial constraints [4][6]. Group 3: National Health Policy Initiatives - The article discusses the concept of "national negotiated drugs," which refers to the government's efforts to negotiate prices with pharmaceutical companies to make high-quality medications more accessible to the public [2]. - Since 2018, the national drug procurement policy has led to the inclusion of 835 new drugs in the basic medical insurance directory, with 530 of these being negotiated, covering various treatment areas including cancer and rare diseases [3][6]. - The implementation of centralized procurement has resulted in the collection of 1,303 types of drugs, further contributing to the reduction of drug prices and improving accessibility for patients [6].

Core Viewpoint - The pharmacy department in hospitals has undergone significant changes, shifting from a profit center to a cost center and now to a department focused on compliance with various drug-related assessments and regulations [2][30]. Group 1: Changes in Pharmacy Department's Role - The pharmacy department was once a key profit center for hospitals but transformed into a cost center after the cancellation of drug markups in public hospitals in 2017 [2][30]. - The department now faces a multitude of drug-related assessment indicators, such as antibiotic usage intensity and basic drug ratio, complicating its operational landscape [3][4]. - The pharmacy department's responsibilities have expanded to include compliance with both clinical needs and regulatory requirements, creating a complex work environment [4][6]. Group 2: Challenges Faced by Pharmacy Departments - Pharmacy department heads, like Wang Jun, report feeling overwhelmed by the increasing number of policies and assessments they must navigate, often leading to conflicts between clinical needs and regulatory demands [6][9]. - Issues such as drug shortages, particularly for commonly used medications, have become a frequent challenge, leading to patient complaints and added pressure from hospital administration [8][9]. - The pharmacy department must balance various conflicting demands from regulatory bodies, clinical staff, and patients, making their role increasingly complex [17][19]. Group 3: Evolving Assessment Metrics - The performance assessment metrics for pharmacy departments have become more detailed and stringent, with a focus on antibiotic usage and cost management [14][15]. - The introduction of new metrics, such as the average drug cost per outpatient/inpatient, has added to the pressure on pharmacy departments to manage costs effectively while ensuring compliance [15][22]. - The shift in focus from drug ratios to cost metrics reflects a broader trend in healthcare towards more comprehensive performance evaluations [15][22]. Group 4: Future Implications - The pharmacy department's role is evolving from a cost center to a compliance support function, emphasizing the need for effective communication and professional knowledge to navigate complex regulations [26][30]. - As the healthcare landscape continues to change, pharmacy departments must adapt to new policies and assessment criteria, which may lead to further challenges in drug management and patient care [30].