GSK firmly believed that a shift in focus from the treatment of illness to the prevention of illness could drive significant and positive change, Evan Daly, Country Medical Director, GSK told the Conference.
“Prevention is not merely a healthcare strategy; it is a necessity for sustainable healthcare. In developed countries including Ireland, populations are ageing, chronic diseases are taking a greater toll than ever before, and infectious diseases will continue to circulate and emerge. All of this is creating unsustainable pressure on health systems and economies. Our healthcare systems, particularly our hospitals, are increasingly burdened by the demands of treating illness. Overcrowded facilities and stretched resources have become the norm rather than the exception.
“That’s why at GSK, we’re turning science and technology into solutions that can get ahead of disease. From vaccines to HIV and chronic respiratory disease, we’re working on either a prevention agenda or on interventions to help change the course of a disease – preventing or slowing progression of an illness and limiting complications.
“We’ve built one of the broadest vaccine portfolios in the industry to help protect people at all stages of life, from childhood to older age. With our wide range of vaccine technologies, we can take a targeted approach, allowing us to develop tailored vaccines for different diseases and individuals.
“For decades, we’ve transformed the lives of people living with HIV by making breakthroughs in treatment and innovating also in the area of prevention. We’re focusing research on novel treatment options that allows people living with HIV to take fewer or less frequent medicines, both of which can contribute to enhanced quality of life for patients who would otherwise be reminded daily of their HIV status.
“Our decades of experience in respiratory care have led us to create treatments that could bring more patients closer than ever before to remission for severe asthma. This could free patients from exacerbations that cause cumulative lung damage and could potentially avoid hospitalisation – reducing or removing the need for oral corticosteroids, stabilising lung function and controlling symptoms.
“Using the latest AI/machine learning technologies, our scientists have identified biomarkers to help with the long-aspired goal of tailored therapy and functional cure. More than ever, we believe that getting ahead of disease is the best investment – for patients, communities, health systems, the environment and economies. Together, we have an opportunity to reimagine health – to not just treat sickness, but to invest in keeping people well. We want to work with patients, policy makers and our peers to stop disease in its tracks, creating the right conditions to champion prevention and enable timely, proactive access to preventative interventions.”
Ms. Daly said the GSK agenda for prevention aligned seamlessly with the HSE strategy of prevention, as outlined in Sláintecare. Sláintecare emphasised delivering the right care in the right place at the right time, a vision GSK was proud to support.
GSK was at the forefront of immunisation transformation in Ireland. Through its active participation in the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association, and through the commissioning of a groundbreaking project with various other interested stakeholders, it was developing a comprehensive roadmap for the implementation of an adult immunisation programme in Ireland.
“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to enhancing public health through preventive measures. Vaccination is one of the most effective tools in our preventive arsenal. The value of adult vaccination extends far beyond individual protection.
“A report commissioned by GSK and published by the Office of Health Economics this year determined that for every euro invested in adult vaccination in Ireland, our society stands to gain up to 23 euros in return. These benefits are multifaceted and profound. Adult vaccination reduces the incidence of infectious and other debilitating diseases, leading to fewer outbreaks, reducing negative impacts on quality of life and lowering healthcare costs. This translates to a healthier population, reduced social care needs, and a more resilient community. The societal return on investment is substantial, encompassing improved public health and economic stability.
“Vaccination alleviates the burden on our healthcare system by preventing diseases that would otherwise require extensive medical intervention. Fewer hospitalisations and medical consultations mean that healthcare resources can be allocated more efficiently. For individuals, vaccination offers protection against serious and debilitating diseases, leading to better health outcomes and quality of life. It reduces medical expenses, minimises the risk of complications, and enables people to lead more productive lives. A healthy workforce is a cornerstone of a thriving economy. By preventing illnesses, vaccination reduces absenteeism, increases productivity, and supports economic growth. The economic return on investment in vaccination is clear and compelling.
“One of the under-recognised benefits of adult vaccination is its role in combatting antimicrobial resistance (AMR). By preventing infections, vaccination reduces the need for antibiotics, thereby curbing the development and spread of AMR. This is a critical component of our broader strategy to combat this global threat.”
Ms. Daly said chronic diseases were taking an increasing toll on people’s lives. GSK Ireland had invested in a patient support programme in GP surgeries supplementing and enhancing the existing chronic disease management programme. This initiative had shown positive results for patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) by demonstrating the benefit to patients appropriate coding which in turn enabled priority use of healthcare resources focussing on those at greatest risk of exacerbation and disease progression with non-pharmacological and pharmacological intervention.
“By providing tailored support and resources, we have improved patient outcomes and quality of life, further aligning our efforts with the Sláintecare strategy.
“As we navigate the complexities of healthcare, it is imperative that we prioritise prevention. By doing so, we can reduce the strain on our overcrowded health systems, enhance public health, and drive economic growth. For our part, we will continue to be ambitious for patients in Ireland serving those who will need innovative and lifesaving medicines and preventative interventions in the years ahead.
“There is an opportunity to reimagine health – to not just treat sickness, but to invest in keeping people well. We want to work with patients, policy makers and our peers to stop disease in its tracks, creating the right conditions to champion prevention and enable timely, proactive access to preventative interventions.
“Our agenda for prevention aligns seamlessly with the HSE strategy of prevention, as outlined in Sláintecare. Sláintecare emphasises delivering the right care in the right place at the right time, a vision we are proud to support.”
