Biopharmaceutical Associations in Southeast Asia Work Together to Educate About Patient-Centered Policy Solutions
Several national associations representing biopharmaceutical companies today announced the launch of Healthy Innovation to draw attention to unmet medical needs in Southeast Asia and the pro-innovation solutions that can improve patients’ lives in the region.
This collaboration will highlight successful public-private partnerships and case studies and address policies that could undermine innovation and private sector investment.
The associations, including the International Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group (IPMG), Pharmaceutical Association of Malaysia (PhAMA), Pharmaceutical & Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) and Singapore Association of Pharmaceutical Industries (SAPI) released the following joint statement on the initiative:
“Southeast Asia is one of the fastest growing and dynamic economic regions in the world. Thanks to treatment breakthroughs and wider health care access, people are living longer, healthier lives, but patients still need greater health care options, faster access to existing treatments and cures and improved resources to deliver care. Healthy Innovation will provide policymakers and stakeholders with the tools to develop pro-innovation solutions.”
Data shows that life expectancy in Southeast Asia has increased by more than 25% over the past 50 years – from 56 years in 1967 to 71 years in 2016. It is estimated that new treatments accounted for as much as 73% of the increase in life expectancies from 2000-2009. But non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease, diabetes and cancer threaten patient health and strain local budgets. To continue to see improved health outcomes and combat rising rates of NCDs, countries across Southeast Asia must invest in health and adopt policies that promote innovation and ensure patient access to life-saving treatments and cures.
Healthy Innovation calls on all stakeholders within the region to commit to investing in health and adopting policies that promote innovation. Please visit http://www.healthyinnovationSEA.org to learn more.
