Replies to post #124420 on Biotech Values

[biotech jim]

Even the science is complicated, as one can find out by exploring androgen dependent and androgen independent states. Of course this relates to the treatment strategies as well. Throw in the issue of metastasis, it is no wonder that the urologists and the oncs have some (or a lot) of difficulties here.

I used to work on the enzyme that converts T to DHT so I have some hands on knowledge of at least some of the science. Always learning here.

Thanks for providing your multiple perspectives on the DNDN issues including the " high density" statement.

[xrymd]

I think there is a lot of Monday-morning quarterbacking going on here on this issue. How many people would believe that doctors would withhold access to a proven life-extending drug because of cash flow issues at their practice? Remember, these urologists could simply refer these patients to a larger practice or an academic center and they could get treated. Instead, they are just sitting on them.

I spoke to a different oncologist this morning. Her group just can't take the financial chance of not getting Provenge reimbursed. You sometimes have to wait 6 months to get paid. She has taken hits on Avastin and even procrit. Only very large groups can do it. How much money do you think lays around in MD's business accounts? For example my group grosses 9 million a year and we almost always have under 50k in the account.

Referal to Miami according to her, is not that easy. The specialists are difficult to get a hold of and the patients (elderly) aren't jazzed up for traveling an hour on the freeway each way.

Additionally Apheris (collecting the patients blood) is a bit of a pain for the doctors and the patients to set up and go through.

Giving chemo in a pill or IV is just really easy.