In this episode, I’m joined by Professor Fabrizio Gianfrate, a voting member of AIFA—the Italian Medicines Agency—and a long-time figure in European health economics.

We explore why Italy is viewed as a strong market for rare disease access, the growing friction between good patient access and lower pricing, and how delayed payment and instalment models are creating challenges for innovative contracting in Italy’s system.

It’s a fascinating look at a market that often flies under the radar, with real-world insights from someone deeply embedded in both policy and practice.

About The Payer Exchange

The Payer Exchange is a podcast where Omar Ali, Head of Payers at Verpora, sits down with payers from around the world to talk candidly about what’s shaping access, value, and decision-making in their markets.

The series covers a range of consistent themes across markets—such as horizon scanning, indication-based pricing, rare diseases, and system sustainability—while also highlighting country-specific dynamics. By asking the same core questions in each conversation, the podcast reveals both common pressures and contrasting approaches across healthcare systems.

The Payer Exchange is designed for professionals working in market access, pricing, policy, and strategy who want a deeper understanding of how payers are approaching the increasingly complex landscape of pharmaceutical innovation.

Disclaimer

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended as legal or policy advice. All content is based on non-confidential intelligence. Views expressed by the speakers are personal opinions and should not be attributed to anyone else. No part of this presentation may be reproduced for commercial purposes without the express permission of Omar Ali, Verpora Limited.