Negotiations for the successor to the voluntary scheme for branded medicines, pricing and access (VPAS) have begun between the government, NHS England and the pharmaceutical industry.

The current scheme – which came into force in 2019 – is due to expire at the end of 2023. Negotiations are due to conclude in the autumn ahead of the new scheme starting on 1 January 2024.

The aim of the scheme is to agree a system of NHS branded medicine pricing that supports drug innovation, NHS financial sustainability and patient outcomes.