I would like to add information regarding steps that have enhanced access to Glivec in the developing world and the positive impact for patients. Novartis initiated an innovative global access model –the Glivec International Patient Assistance Program (GIPAP) --that provides patients with Glivec at no cost, plus wrap-around services geared towards overcoming challenges for treatment compliance. Initiated in 2002 in India, GIPAP provides patients one-on-one counseling from the time of diagnosis. GIPAP provides patients with a personal advocate who supports the patient and his/her family throughout the duration of the treatment. Further, GIPAP has been the catalyst for the formation of patient support groups which are providing long lasting social change in their communities. The patient group in the Philippines, Touched by Max, periodically organizes blood drives in collaboration with university students. As a result, patients in need of blood transfusions are able to access them free of charge. In Malaysia, the local patient group, MaxFamily, has had an impact on pain management during bone marrow aspirations. The Friends of Max in India organizes the largest gathering of CML and GIST patients worldwide, with their next meeting expecting 1,000 patients and their families. All groups have been successful in shifting cultural stigma of cancer, enhancing the relationship between physicians and patients, providing education, information, emotional support, and empowering patients to have a voice in their treatment. GIPAP related patient groups are providing similar kinds of impact in communities in Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Indonesia, The Sudan and other countries. Public-private partnerships -- such as GIPAP -- are essential to access, and I would hope that successful models such as GIPAP can be replicated to other drugs and benefit even more cancer patients. Pat Garcia-Gonzalez Executive Director, The Max Foundation Edmonds, WA; USA