Monday, August 10, 2009


Feds’ grip on health care system could strangle biotechs
As lawmakers debate the future of the nation’s health care system, some Maryland biotechnology executives fear federal legislation could cut off the cash supply for startup life sciences companies.

Health reform shaping in Washington could mean that some drug companies would lose their exclusive licenses in less time than it would take to recoup the cost of developing new drugs. Another issue in the health reform debate is whether the government would set prices for some drugs and diagnostic treatments. Venture capitalists would think twice about investing in a new treatment if it can’t be sold at market prices, biotech entrepreneurs say....