Today, people living with NCDs—cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes—are at increased risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19. This unprecedented pandemic is highlighting the critical need for strong, resilient health systems that are ready to address emerging health crises as well as ongoing population health needs like NCDs, which affect millions worldwide and disproportionately impact people in low- and middle-income countries. As we face this latest health threat, we’re working with our partners to strengthen health systems for the benefit of all:

 

  • PATH: Leveraging real-time data through the use of the NCD Navigator to guide COVID-19 emergency responses
  • World Bank: Providing financing to support the increased uptake of digital health technology
  • City Cancer Challenge: Working with experts from around the world to assess the impact of the pandemic and opportunities to leverage scarce resources, and sharing innovative approaches to cancer care, patient support
  • World Heart Federation: Launched a global prospective cohort study to better understand the impact COVID-19 is having on people living with cardiovascular disease
  • NCD Alliance: Launched the Solidarity Fund on NCDs and COVID-19 to support the network of national and regional NCD Alliance members

 

Finally, we know that supply chains will be vital in the delivery of vaccines and treatments. Our ongoing work with PATH and a dedicated group of member company partners has been focused on how to ensure the consistent supply of NCD medicines and products for people living with NCDs. This includes a cold chain process to maintain medication like insulin—with a high likelihood that any coronavirus vaccine being temperature sensitive, this work is vital.

 

Learn more about how Access Accelerated and its partners are addressing the challenge of COVID-19.