PTO Pilot Program Would Offer Fast-Track Patent Re-Examinations

Some drugmakers could qualify to receive a faster review of patents from the Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) if a fast-track pilot program under consideration by the agency is launched. The fast-track ex parte re-examination pilot program, revealed by the agency in a recent Federal Register notice, would allow companies to receive an accelerated review of the validity of any patents associated with products that address humanitarian needs.
Washington Drug Letter