Scientific breakthroughs are accelerating, but policy and payment systems have not kept pace. In this episode of Health Matters, John O’Brien, President and CEO of the National Pharmaceutical Council, joins Kristin Cahill, Global CEO, GCI Health and Global Healthcare Lead, Burson Group, to examine how innovation, evidence and health policy are colliding — and what that means for patient access.
O’Brien draws on experience across government, industry and caregiving to challenge common assumptions about drug pricing and healthcare spending. He explains the many forces shaping patient affordability and access, and why medicines should be viewed as long-term investments rather than short-term expenses. The discussion also explores direct-to-patient models, most-favored-nation pricing and the unintended consequences of recent reforms.
For healthcare leaders navigating rising costs, policy uncertainty and rapid scientific progress, the message is clear: Innovation delivers value only if patients can access it. Listen to the full interview for a candid, policy-focused conversation on aligning incentives, protecting innovation and keeping patients at the center of care.
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