Pharmaceutical Industry: Stepping up for Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)

 

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Pharmaceutical companies have a unique role to play in our society – not just supplying vital medicines, but also in contributing to the socio-economic health of our communities." 

- Emma Walmsley, CEO of GlaxoSmithKline. 

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In today's evolving world, the social determinants of health (SDOH) are gaining widespread recognition

for their role in health outcomes. These determinants encompass a variety of factors that influence health

outcomes, including economic stability, education, social and community context, health and healthcare,

and neighborhood and built environment. They are the conditions in which people live, grow, work, and age.

From CDC

For far too long, the focus of healthcare, and more so the pharmaceutical industry, has been centered

around the development and distribution of therapeutics. However, an emerging perspective urges the

industry to look beyond this traditional role. As stakeholders in the ecosystem of healthcare, pharmaceutical

l companies should play an integral part in addressing SDOH. The call-to-action is not merely about

social good but presents a unique opportunity that makes business sense and impacts the bottom line.

Direct Contributions: More Than Medicine

Pharmaceutical companies can make a direct impact by broadening their scope of interventions. Initiatives such as patient assistance programs that provide reduced-cost or free medications for those who can't afford them tackle the economic stability and healthcare access aspects of SDOH.

Moreover, launching educational campaigns that promote awareness about health conditions, prevention strategies, and treatment options can help elevate health literacy levels, directly addressing another critical SDOH.

Lastly, by partnering with community organizations, pharmaceutical companies can align with initiatives to mitigate SDOH at the grassroots. These can range from nutrition and fitness programs to health screenings, effectively contributing to better living conditions and health outcomes in underserved communities.

Indirect Contributions: Catalyzing Change

Pharmaceutical companies can wield their resources and influence to spur change indirectly. For instance, funding research on SDOH and health outcomes can help devise evidence-based interventions and strategies. In addition, advocating for policy changes that enhance healthcare access and reduce health disparities can bring about systemic improvements.

Digital health solutions, developed in collaboration with tech companies, can significantly expand access to healthcare services. Telemedicine, mobile health apps, and digital therapeutics are just a few examples of how technological innovation can transcend barriers and bring healthcare to the fingertips of those living in remote and underserved areas.

Harnessing Patient-Generated Health Data (PGHD)

Another promising avenue for pharmaceutical companies is using patient-generated health data (PGHD). This data, collected by patients themselves through wearables, mobile health apps, and other self-tracking tools, can offer invaluable insights into the relationship between SDOH and health outcomes.

Tracking physical activity, diet, sleep patterns, stress levels, medication adherence, symptoms, and mood can facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of a patient's health. By leveraging this data, personalized and effective treatment plans can be devised, marking a significant stride in precision medicine.

Conclusion: An Opportunity to Make a Difference

The pharmaceutical industry has a unique chance to create a positive impact by combining its resources to address Social Determinants of Health (SDOH). This opportunity goes beyond just gaining recognition for philanthropy, as it can lead to a healthier population, more efficient healthcare spending, and improved therapeutic effectiveness.

We cannot simply acknowledge the importance of Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) and expect change to happen. We must undergo a collective transformation, ignite innovation, and commit to sustainable strategies that promote healthy communities. Improving community health directly benefits our bottom line. The call to action is urgent and promising. As leaders in medical innovation, the pharmaceutical industry is in the perfect position to lead the charge toward a future where we address the underlying social factors impacting our health, not just the symptoms. The responsibility falls on us to seize this opportunity without delay. We must roll up our sleeves, put on our innovator's hats, and take the first step towards a healthier world. The time to act is now.

Let's do it!