Capitalizing a Cure: How Finance Controls the Price and Value of Medicines

Capitalizing a Cure explores the power of finance over business, biomedical research, and public health by investigating the global debate over access to curative treatments for hepatitis C. It reveals how financialized capitalism has impacted the development, pricing, and valuation of medicines, emphasizing the harmful effects of allowing financial markets to determine who heals and who suffers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 245 pages
Publication date: 24 January 2023
Publisher: University of California Press

Capitalizing a Cure: Unraveling the Power of Finance Over Business, Biomedicine, and Public Health

In the captivating book "Capitalizing a Cure," readers embark on a profound exploration into the intricate dynamics that shape the realm of business, biomedicine, and public health. This thought-provoking work delves into the contentious battle over a groundbreaking medical breakthrough, shedding light on the profound influence of finance over these critical sectors.

The introduction of curative treatments for hepatitis C in 2013 ignited a global debate that intensified the scrutiny of access to new medicines. The sticker shock associated with these treatments further highlighted the complex interplay between finance, business, and public health. In his meticulously researched work, Victor Roy seeks to unravel an often overlooked aspect of this debate: the pervasive reach of financialized capitalism into the realm of medicine.

Through a seamless blend of historical research, insights from political economy, and science and technology studies, Roy meticulously traces the intricate pathways through which curative medicines have transformed into financial assets. He explores the ways in which these assets have become dominated by speculative strategies and extraction, often at the expense of access and care.

The book takes readers on a journey that spans public and private labs, Wall Street boardrooms, public health meetings, and health centers. Roy meticulously unravels the complex web of relationships and power dynamics that shape the production, pricing, and valuation of curative medicines. His account is both provocative and sobering, illuminating the harmful consequences of allowing financial markets to dictate who heals and who suffers.

"Capitalizing a Cure" serves as a powerful testament to the urgent need for building more equitable futures. It sheds light on the perils of allowing financial interests to overshadow the well-being of individuals and communities. By exposing the intricate connections between finance, business, and public health, this book provides valuable insights into the mechanisms that perpetuate health disparities and inequality.

As readers engage with the compelling narratives and thought-provoking analysis presented in "Capitalizing a Cure," they are compelled to consider the broader implications of these developments. It prompts us to question the role of government, industry, and civil society in shaping the future of healthcare and medicine. It encourages us to advocate for policies that prioritize access, affordability, and the well-being of all individuals, regardless of their financial status.

In conclusion, "Capitalizing a Cure" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex interplay between finance, business, and public health. It offers a thought-provoking perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing these sectors and provides a roadmap for building a more equitable and sustainable future. By embracing the insights and recommendations presented in this book, we can work towards a world where healthcare and medicine are accessible, affordable, and equitable for all.

Weight: 356g
Dimension: 228 x 153 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520388710