SCOTLAND must ensure it gets the best value for money from companies providing prescription drugs, the Health Secretary warned.
Alex Neil told MSPs on the Scottish Parliament Health Committee the industry was secretive and many earned substantial profits.
The Herald reported last week on the independent reviews into access to new medicines, which recommended greater transparency and public involvement in the decision-making process over approving new medicines.
The review said the public should be allowed into the meetings at which decisions on whether or not to approve drugs for prescribing on the NHS were taken. MSPs heard the health service spent 15% of its £12 billion budget on prescription drugs
Mr Neil said there had to be greater collaboration between the Government the NHS and the pharmaceuticals industry.
He said "Each company is operating in a competitive commercial environment. They could be more forthcoming on the cost of developing a drug. I recognise the challenges of companies. They are in business to make a profit but I would welcome more information on cost. One wonders if we are getting the best bang for our buck."
Mr Neil said there was a misconception that the Scottish Medicines Consortium turned down more drugs than it approved.
He added: " There is a 70% approval rate. My principal concern is to maximise the transparency and openness." He said he wanted "the right drug at the right price for the people and the patient."
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