PharmAccess and the Global Health Hub
PharmAccess has long been a forerunner in advancing equitable healthcare, leveraging data-driven approaches and innovative financing and delivery models to strengthen health systems, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Guided by the belief that access to affordable quality healthcare is a fundamental right, PharmAccess bridges the gap between those in need of care and the resources required to deliver it. The organisation’s partnership with the Netherlands’ Global Health Hub underscores its commitment to tackling global health challenges through collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Dr. Kwasi Boahene, Director of Health Systems at PharmAccess, stresses the value of the Hub as a platform for collective action: “The Hub enables us to advocate more effectively. It connects organisations, institutions, and ministries, allowing us to align our efforts and amplify our impact.” PharmAccess has already leveraged this collaborative environment by actively participating in discussions around universal health coverage during UN events. Boahene highlights how the Hub facilitates coordination across sectors, ensuring that health initiatives are impactful and scalable.
The importance of data
A cornerstone of PharmAccess’ work is its emphasis on innovative health financing and value-based care. “Our goal is to develop a model demonstrating how better care can be delivered, even with limited financial resources,” Boahene explains. “We want to share these lessons through the Hub and explore how they can be replicated in other countries.” PharmAccess is paving the way for more efficient and better care by leveraging data to optimise health systems and improve patient outcomes. Data is central to PharmAccess’ approach. “Data is a driver of innovation,” Boahene emphasizes. “It’s the same principle that companies like Google or Amazon use to transform industries. In healthcare, data can improve quality, drive down costs, and make healthcare more accessible.”
PharmAccess and its collaboration with the Hub
Boahene sees the Hub as a space to learn from others and bring new perspectives to the table. He notes that the challenges faced in Ghana, where PharmAccess is engaged, are not so much different from those in the Netherlands. “Both countries face increasing healthcare challenges, rising costs and shortage of care professionals. “In Ghana, we deal with middle-aged people managing conditions like diabetes or hypertension. In the Netherlands, it’s older populations face similar issues. What we learn there can inform innovative, digital solutions here,” he says, reflecting the interconnected nature of global health. The Global Health Hub, still in its early stages, holds great promise for organizations like PharmAccess. Boahene acknowledges that building momentum takes time but is optimistic about its potential. “The Hub represents what we urgently need: connection and visibility. Too often, organizations work in silos, missing the opportunities that come from collaboration. The Hub will help break down those barriers.”
Looking ahead, PharmAccess aims to continue using the Hub as a platform to share its expertise and insights in data-driven innovations in health financing and delivery, while learning from the experiences of others. Boahene: “The success of the Hub will ultimately depend on its ability to drive tangible action and create value for its partners. For us, it’s about turning knowledge into impact.”