Here is some recent news relevant to the NIO community that FasterCures brought to my attention:

FDA looks at increasing access to experimental drugs
The FDA plans to create two proposals involving the use of experimental drugs for seriously ill patients with few treatment options, according to sources. One proposal will clarify, formalize and simplify how the drugs can be made available to patients while the other involves the price that can be charged for the drugs. The Wall Street Journal (subscription required) (11/9)

Nonprofit funding groups help in drug R&D
Companies increasingly are looking toward nonprofit funding organizations to help in the research and development of new drugs, collaborations referred to as product development partnerships. Nonprofits benefit, too. "We work with partners to ensure availability and affordability. The key is that the end products reach people," a nonprofit director said. The Scientist (free registration) (11/1)

Experts urge more taxpayer funding to support FDA
Witnesses at a Senate hearing said the FDA budget should include increased taxpayer funding, in addition to increased fees paid by the companies it regulates. The change would ease public concerns that the agency is compromised by its reliance on industry fees. The hearing focused on a bipartisan bill to strengthen the FDA's role in ensuring the safety of new drugs. The Washington Post/Associated Press (free registration) (11/16)

Problems abound in fund-raising for rare diseases
Richard K. Olney, an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis researcher, fund-raiser and patient has encountered roadblocks common to raising money for research into rare diseases. Tough economic times, less awareness and recognition, and competition from other charity causes -- including ones with a larger pool of patients or patients who live longer and can stay more active in the efforts -- can make it difficult to attract attention and funds to rare diseases. The Wall Street Journal (free content) (11/21)