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DUBAI, UAE: Gilead Sciences today announced an expansion of its existing MA’AK Patient Assistance Program to include an additional product, from the direct-acting antivirals class of drugs (DAAs), to help cure eligible patients diagnosed with the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). Through its MA’AK Patient Assistance Programs, Gilead Sciences, along with its strategic partners, support eligible patients across the United Arab Emirates by enabling them to complete their treatment even if they can’t afford to pay for it in full.
Since the start of the program in 2016, which is managed by Axios International, almost 350 patients were able to access the curative HCV medications.
“In partnership with the UAE Ministry of Health and other stakeholders, we are pleased to add to the MA’AK program our latest HCV product, which can address the medical need of difficult HCV patients, including those who have previously failed therapy with a DAA-containing regimen,” said Frederico Silva, General Manager, Gilead Sciences, Middle East.
Chronic Hepatitis C is often dubbed as a silent disease as around 80% of patients show no symptoms in the early stages according to the World Health Organization. However, if left untreated, it can cause liver failure, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
Gilead has led the medical breakthrough in hepatitis C treatment, including having the first treatment to provide a complete regimen in a single tablet. With the new product addition, more patients will now be able to receive support through the program, owing to the collaborative efforts between all stakeholders involved.
“Our ultimate goal is to increase access to medicines for patients facing affordability barriers. The MA’AK program complements the commendable efforts by our health authorities to raise awareness and eliminate HCV with early detection and diagnosis,” said Anas Nofal, Senior Director, Greater MENA, Axios International. “By enabling patients to access and complete their full course of treatment, we’re able to maximize medical benefit.”
The program allows patients to pay only what they can afford, based on a confidential financial assessment conducted by Axios, and the remaining amount is covered by Gilead Sciences and charitable partners, including Dar Al Ber, the Red Crescent and Al Ihsan Charity Association
Since Dar Al Ber Society has been founded, its main goal has been to serve and benefit the patients who are in need for medical support. We are always delighted to have such partnerships and initiatives that aims to support the patients who suffer from HCV.
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About Gilead
Gilead Sciences is a biopharmaceutical company that has pursued and achieved breakthroughs in medicine for more than three decades, with the goal of creating a healthier world for all people. The company is committed to advancing innovative medicines to prevent and treat life-threatening diseases. Gilead operates in more than 35 countries worldwide, with headquarters in Foster City, California.
For more information on Gilead Sciences, please visit the company’s website at www.gilead.com
About Axios
Axios International is a pioneering healthcare access company with more than 22 years of specialized experience developing practical and sustainable solutions to patient access challenges in emerging markets. Axios has designed and/or implemented patient access solutions in more than 100 countries across the globe.
© Press Release 2021
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