The Australian Cell and Gene Catalyst, a collaboration between AusBiotech and Medicines Australia, recommends that the Medical Board of Australia recognise cell and gene therapies as a medical specialty and to certify specialised training programs for clinical settings.
Its call was in response to the Federal Government's health workforce scope of practice review, a component of the 2023-24 Federal Budget, according to a report in BiotechDispatch.
The review, spearheaded by Professor Paul Cormack, aims for completion by the end of 2024.
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An opportunity
"The rapid growth of Australia’s cell and gene industry means greater opportunities to treat people in Australia who live with debilitating inherited diseases and cancers,” the Catalyst said.
“Importantly, this rapidly expanding industry will create new jobs for Australia’s diverse, skilled workforce.
“This will boost Australia’s health and economy and secure our position as a leader in the Asia-Pacific region and on the broader international stage."
Increased capacity and capabilities throughout the cell and gene industry's value chain is vital to provide Australians with access to advanced treatments like cancer immunotherapies and gene-editing therapeutics, it added.
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Other recommendations
Among its key recommendations were urging the Pharmacy Board of Australia to collaborate with the cell and gene therapy sector in formulating standards and guidelines for pharmacy professionals.
Additionally, it suggests that educational institutions be incentivised to develop resources for primary care professionals.
This training is crucial for the effective delivery, monitoring and ongoing care of patients undergoing cell and gene therapies.