As the U.S. health care system braces for expensive gene therapies, a new analysis suggests that a forthcoming treatment for a rare disease called beta thalassemia would be cost-effective — even if priced at $2.1 million.
The therapy, which is being developed by Bluebird Bio, is still being reviewed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and approval is not expected for several months. Although a formal price has not been disclosed, the company has previously indicated it was looking to charge $2.1 million for its treatment using a five-year installment plan.