New data highlight gaps in CAR T-cell therapy health system readiness across major markets, showing that many patients who could benefit from the treatment are not receiving it. The findings come from a recent IQVIA Institute report.
The study examined seven nations, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia, to assess how prepared their health systems are to deliver this complex, personalized cancer therapy. Researchers combined registry data, hospital surveys and policy reviews.
Funding for the analysis was supplied by Gilead and Kite on an arm’s-length basis. Although the companies could review the draft, they had no editorial control, allowing the institute to present an unbiased, data-driven picture of current access challenges.
Utilisation rates reveal stark disparities
One of the most striking observations is the wide gap in utilisation. In some countries, fewer than 11% of patients meeting clinical criteria have been treated, while others report modest gains after policy changes. The low uptake suggests systemic obstacles beyond clinical efficacy.
Three primary barriers emerged. First, referral pathways are often unclear, leaving physicians uncertain about how to direct eligible patients. In Spain, 61% of surveyed doctors reported delays between referral and treatment as a major hurdle.
Capacity and strategy shortfalls compound the problem
Second, many treatment centres lack the capacity to meet demand. Six of the seven countries studied indicated that existing facilities are strained, with limited staff, manufacturing slots and specialised equipment to handle the therapy’s logistical requirements.
Third, the lack of detailed national strategies hampers progress. Five of the surveyed nations do not have formal plans outlining goals, timelines or performance metrics for CAR T rollout, making it difficult to track improvements or allocate resources effectively.
Patients feel the impact directly. More than half of those awaiting treatment experience waits of around two months, and in Italy only 38% receive therapy within a month of referral, despite 80% eventually being treated.
The institute’s leadership says the purpose is to identify gaps between the promise of innovative cancer treatments and the practical realities within health systems. The analysis warns that, without targeted action, cancer-related deaths in Europe could rise by more than 24% by 2035.
IQVIA Institute executive highlights readiness gaps and calls for monitoring
The analysis calls for long-term assessment and monitoring to raise utilisation rates. Spain’s rise from 14% to 18% between 2022 and 2023, linked to national planning, shows policy can drive change. Countries should craft national strategies with clear goals, timelines and performance metrics for CAR T-cell rollout.
Implementation steps and monitoring
Continuous tracking can pinpoint bottlenecks, such as referral delays or capacity shortfalls, and trigger timely corrective actions.
