Gilead GM reveals three essential strategies in tackling First Nations health equity: Reimagining Healthcare senior leadership series

Why is the life expectancy of First Nations people a staggering 8 years shorter than that of the Australian average? In this episode of the Reimagining Healthcare senior leadership series, Jaime McCoy, General Manager of Gilead Sciences ANZ, envisioned the transformative role for the private sector, particularly the pharmaceutical industry, in advancing the health equity of First Nations peoples in the next 10-15 years.

The latest Close the Gap data revealed that only 5 out of 19 targets for First Nations people are on track, a sobering reality that McCoy believes requires urgent action to shift the dial.

“We have this opportunity to create real change, and I get a lot of energy from leading our teams locally in tackling these issues,” she emphasised.

The May Federal Budget papers revealed a reduction in funding of First Nations health programs in the next four years. McCoy contemplated the message this send to our society, especially in light of the Voice outcomes.

Drawing from international best practices, McCoy highlights key lessons that can inform Australia’s approach to health equity.

Looking ahead, McCoy outlines essential short-term actions to propel the reimagined future of health equity. She stressed three essential strategies to bridge gaps and set the stage for long-term change in First Nations’ health equity.

“All leaders have an opportunity to take a hands on approach,” she stated. “It’s possible to work with communities and our teams to achieve things that are really meaningful and impactful, and will outlast us all in supporting Australia to move in the right direction when we’re thinking about health equity.”

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