Devex Devex 39d ago
The Business Case for Health: A Life Sciences Imperative

The Business Case for Health: A Life Sciences Imperative

Global health investment is increasingly being recognized not as a philanthropic exercise, but as a strategic driver of innovation, economic resilience, and long-term business growth. As governments face growing fiscal pressure and global health needs continue to evolve, the life sciences industry is playing an increasingly important role in shaping global public health through investment, research, partnerships, and innovation. In this session from Devex Impact House @ WHA, leaders from the life sciences industry, global health organizations, advocacy groups, and policy institutions explore why investing in global health is not simply a cost center — but a critical engine for economic opportunity, health security, scientific advancement, and sustainable growth. The conversation examines how global health investment can strengthen trust, accelerate innovation, and help create more resilient economies and healthcare systems worldwide. Session highlights: 🔹 Global Health as a Strategic Growth Engine Andrew Whitehead of Bristol Myers Squibb discusses why global health investment should be integrated into core business strategy — not viewed solely through the lens of philanthropy or corporate responsibility. 🔹 The Health-Wealth Nexus Leaders examine how investments in health systems, research and development, prevention, and equitable access can drive economic productivity, strengthen global health security, and create long-term value for both business and society. 🔹 Building Partnerships for Long-Term Impact PhRMA’s Larry Kerr, CARE’s Crystal Lander, WHO Foundation’s Anil Soni, and Access to Medicine Foundation’s Margo Warren explore the role of cross-sector collaboration, sustainable financing, innovation, and accountability in advancing global health goals. Moderated by: Alan Robbins, Executive Vice President/Partnerships, Devex This conversation was hosted by Devex in partnership with Bristol Myers Squibb and CARE. For more international development news, visit: http://www.devex.com Subscribe to the Devex YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/subscription_center?add_user=wwwdevexcom Follow us on: Facebook: @Devex Instagram: @devex_com LinkedIn: @Devex