We often hear of humanitarian work in other parts of the world, but here in the United States there is real need as well. Around 47 million in the US live in poverty. Financial pressures here can be immense, especially when it comes to healthcare.
That’s why GSK invests a great deal of our philanthropic resources here in the US. Through GSK's US Patient Assistance Program, we provide free medicines to our local neighbors with no or limited health insurance. When we combine our monetary, in-kind, and product donations, half of our global contributions help people in the US.
My most meaningful days are the ones when our assistance work comes to life – when I’m in the field meeting with healthcare leaders who share my passion for helping patients get the care they need.
My colleagues and I recently visited Rx Partnership, a public-private partnership in Virginia that connects patients in need with medicines donated from six pharmaceutical companies, including GSK. Through the Rx Partnership network, patients at 20 free clinics across the state are able to receive needed medicines right in their local communities. For patients facing financial challenges, the free clinic network can be a life saver.
I have heard people question the need for charitable assistance programs and a healthcare safety net in the wake of the Affordable Care Act. The need has certainly diminished, but millions of people in the US, including 400,000 in Virginia, remain without health insurance. We have also seen a growing number of patients who now have insurance, but are underinsured.
But there is hope. GSK’s US Patient Assistance Program, Rx Partnership, and others programs across the country ensure patients get the medicine they need and make an impact in local communities. In 2015, GSK helped more than 150,000 across the US.
I believe that victories in healthcare are won one interaction at a time - one patient at a time. It’s impossible for any company, healthcare organization, or government agency to fix the country's healthcare challenges in isolation, but together we can make a positive impact.
Help me spread the word: If you or someone you know is struggling to afford your medicines or vaccines, visit www.gskforyou.com.
