NIH’s Intramural Research Program (IRP) Access Planning Policy goes into effect tomorrow, October 1, 2025. This policy seeks to improve access to medical products developed from NIH-owned inventions. Starting October 1, 2025, organizations applying to NIH for certain commercial patent licenses will be required to provide the agency with an access plan, describing the steps they will take to promote patient access to any new drug, biologic, or medical device that results from the licensed invention.

Additional information about the policy, guidance, and resources can be found through the NIH Office of Technology Transfer website here: https://www.techtransfer.nih.gov/policy/access-policy. NIH will continue to work with stakeholders and communities to support effective implementation of this policy and to promote the best health outcomes for the American public.

Questions may be sent to the NIH Office of Technology Transfer at [email protected].

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