Innovating to level-up Vietnam’s healthcare

Held by Pharma Group, the event attracted over 400 attendees, both in person and virtually via Zoom. The forum was attended by Deputy Minister of Health Assoc. Prof. Nguyen Thi Lien Huong, Ambassador of the European Union to Vietnam Julien Guerrier, and Ambassador of Ireland to Vietnam Deirdre Ni Fhalluin.

Scientists, doctors, policymakers, and businesses gathered at the second Healthcare Innovation Forum

Addressing the event, Huong said that the prime minister has recently signed a decision approving the National Strategy for developing Vietnam's pharmaceutical industry for the period to 2030, with a vision to 2045. The strategy presents the orientation, goals, and solutions to develop production, distribution, circulation, quality, use, and more.

“There is a focus on developing domestically produced brand-name drugs with new dosage forms and bio medicines, striving to reach level 4 according to the World Health Organization's assessment classification,” she added.

“At the same time, work is being done to build a digital data ecosystem and health platform to allow for a tracking and monitoring system for drug supply activities to optimise patients' use.”

At the event, speakers provided valuable insights into research, innovations, and knowledge-sharing. It sought to contribute significantly to the industry's goals, bringing it on par with other advanced countries in the region and around the world.

The forum featured inspiring presentations and engaging discussions from scientists, doctors, policymakers, and businesses, offering diverse perspectives. New approaches were explored, including strengthening research capacity, facilitating clinical trials, and driving the development of new medicines.

Additionally, the forum focused on applying advanced technologies such as AI, digital transformation, and data management to enhance the system's management capabilities.

Furthermore, it emphasised attracting investments by creating a favourable legal environment and providing incentives for scientific research activities, technology transfer, high-tech applications, and more.

Dr. Emin Turan, chairman of Pharma Group said, “Vietnam has enormous potential to foster an environment that encourages innovation thanks to its skilled and diligent workforce. The nation is striving to improve its healthcare sector and develop it into a hub for science and innovation.”

Dr. Emin Turan, chairman of Pharma Group

“We suggest enhancing the research and development (R&D) capabilities, encouraging the swift implementation of the digital transformation, and creating a sustainable policy climate to support innovation. Pharma Group and our member companies are dedicated to being a reliable partner and supporting healthcare innovation in Vietnam with a focus on patient benefits,” he added.

Healthcare experts agreed that innovation and creativity are crucial for Vietnam's development, particularly in the healthcare sector. They highlight that they bring numerous benefits to patients, healthcare providers, and the overall healthcare system. These include improved quality of care, increased access to services, optimised management of resources, and advancements in medical research.

To foster a vibrant and resilient healthcare sector that is capable of addressing the future challenges, experts recommended strengthening R&D, establishing a more diverse healthcare ecosystem, enhancing capacity, and promoting partnerships and solution-oriented approaches.

Dr. Nguyen Lan Hieu, director of Hanoi Medical University Hospital, said that the application of innovative and creative solutions has had a direct impact on the healthcare industry, and also contributes to improving examinations and treatments.

“Many modern remote healthcare and monitoring devices have been applied. Currently, at Hanoi Medical University Hospital, the medical records have also been digitalised, which is much more convenient for patients, doctors, and hospitals,” he added.

“The application of innovation has practical significance for medical development in Vietnam and will become a trend in the future,” he noted.

The event served as a commemoration of Pharma Group's 25^th anniversary. It highlighted the unwavering dedication of Pharma Group and its members to support Vietnam's healthcare sector in realising a strong, prosperous, and sustainable future for the country. This commitment is rooted in fostering innovation and creativity as fundamental pillars for progress.

Pharma Group represents the voice of the pharmaceutical industry in Vietnam, with 22 member companies sharing the same mission to ensure patients have fast and sustainable access to safe, high-quality, and innovative medicines.

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