The role of pharmaceutical industry in building resilient health system

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study explores the interrelationship among the current sustainability agenda of the pharmaceutical industry, based on the United Nation sustainable development goals (SDGs), the elements of the Joint External Evaluation (JEE) tool, and the triad components of the One Health approach.MethodsA cross-walk exercise was conducted to identify commonalities among SDGs, JEE assessment tool, and One Health approach. An in-depth study of 10 global pharmaceutical firms' corporate sustainability reports and COVID-19 response plan for 2019–2020 was also conducted.ResultsThe result of the exercise showed the existence of a direct and indirect relationship among the SDGs, elements of JEE assessment tool, and One Health approach. For example, both no poverty (SDG 1) and zero hunger (SDG 2) are linked with food safety targets under the JEE and with human and animal health under the One Health approach.ConclusionThis study adds a new dimension emphasizing the possibility of tailoring the pharmaceutical industry's activities under the sustainability agenda to strengthen global health security while remaining consistent with the One Health approach.

Engaging with the Private Sector for Noncommunicable Disease Prevention and Control: Is it Possible to Create “Shared Value?”

“…The industry has both the expertise and business interests in supporting the NCD agenda. As a result, in recent years there has been a significant increase in the number of access to medicines and other global health initiatives involving pharmaceutical companies and their foundations [9]. Other industries, such as sporting goods and fitness, design, and built environments, consumer goods, foods and beverages, health insurance, and media and information technologies are also increasingly becoming pervasive in the health marketplace.…”