EFPIA launches vision towards a life sciences strategy for Europe

The European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) has launched a landmark paper outlining steps towards an integrated strategy for the life sciences sector in Europe.

“Health & Growth – Working together for a healthy Europe” calls for a new generation of partnerships and collaborative solutions to address the EU’s growing health and competitiveness challenges. The paper lays out a strong case for placing the pharmaceutical industry at the heart of European economic reform and growth. It delivers concrete recommendations towards achieving healthier citizens and workforces, creating new jobs, and reaffirming Europe’s position as a global leader in research and development.

Christopher Viehbacher, Sanofi chief executive and EFPIA president, said: “Only a significant improvement in health outcomes, supported by increased innovation, can keep health care expenditure under control. This requires collaboration and a change in perception. We need to better understand the environmental and demographic factors driving health care spending, what are the future needs in terms of prevention and disease management, what is the value of investment in different areas and what innovative approaches will have the most effect. If we want sustainable systems, we can’t revamp just one area; we need to address the system as a whole.”