Gilead Sciences Canada: Partnering for Equity in Healthcare

HEALTH EQUITY AT ITS CORE IS A SIMPLE CONCEPT –that everyone should have the opportunity to achieve good health, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. However, even in Canada’s public healthcare system with its principles of universality and accessibility, health equity can be difficult to achieve. This is particularly true in the cases of cancer and HIV, two diseases that disproportionately affect Indigenous and racialized communities.

In an effort to fuel important change in oncology and virology, Gilead Sciences Canada recently hosted the Partnering for Equity in Healthcare event, which featured thought leaders, healthcare professionals, advocates and community members sharing stories, examining barriers to health equity, and discussing solutions and opportunities to ensure all individuals – and communities – can achieve their optimal health.

“Gilead is committed to advancing health equity and supporting community organizations and changemakers who work every day to improve care for underserved communities across Canada,” said Christophe Griolet, Vice President and General Manager, Gilead Sciences Canada. “Partnering for Equity in Healthcare was an opportunity for us to listen to those who have experienced health disparities within the Canadian healthcare system and learn from those who have been doing the work to eliminate these disparities.”

Gilead recognizes that it will take more than innovative medicines to effect meaningful change, and the company is committed to advancing health equity through partnerships and corporate giving.

Globally, Gilead has announced $24 million in grants as part of its Zeroing-in program which aims to reduce health disparities, improve access to quality healthcare, advance medical education and support local communities most impacted by the HIV epidemic and COVID-19 pandemic. The company has also awarded $7.6 million in grants to advance health equity in breast cancer. The Toward Health Equity Oncology Grant™ supports initiatives to break the cycle of health inequity, and advance health equity for Black people impacted by TNBC. And in Canada, we provide annual funding of almost $5 million in community and medical support to organizations across the country.

“We know that these issues are multi-dimensional, and will not be solved by one group, person, or single approach,” said Griolet. “Gilead is honoured to be part of these important conversations and to work together toward sustainable change that will create a healthcare system that works for all Canadians.”

Solving healthcare inequalities and improving the lives of racialized communities in Canada will require a commitment and collective effort from governments, healthcare, industry and the community. Gilead is proud to be a partner in this journey towards a more equitable healthcare system for all.