Addressing the OECD Health Committee yesterday, Business at OECD (BIAC) emphasized the private sector role as partner both in bringing innovative solutions in health and well-being and in intensifying public-private collaboration with OECD and governments.

Ministers from over 35 OECD and partner countries discussed the Next Generation of Health Reforms. This reflects the challenge that many countries face from the demographic transition to an ageing society and the associated increase in the burden of chronic diseases and related co-morbidities. The meeting addressed a number of topics, including ineffective health spending and avoiding waste, the opportunities offered by new health technologies, the role of health professionals and realizing the promise offered by Big Data in health.

“Health systems in OECD countries face numerous complex challenges,” stated Nicole Denjoy, chair of the BIAC Health Committee. “What they have in common is that these challenges can only be overcome through multi-stakeholder efforts. Health policies need to embrace innovation, encourage education, and foster economic growth; therefore achieving greater policy coherence will be crucial.”

Helen Medina, USCIB’s vice president for product policy and innovation, added: “With the debate over the future of the Affordable Care Act currently embroiling Washington, it’s useful to place discussions of health care affordability and effectiveness in a global context.”

In the paper entitled “Priorities and Vision for the Future of Health,” which was released during the Health Ministerial, business identifies four priority recommendations for the OECD and governments: integrating care, embracing innovation, promoting balanced nutrition and active lifestyles and investing in a healthier future. The paper, which also highlights how private-public dialogue and partnerships could inform health policies and related analysis, can be accessed here.