6.A. Round table: Building a Public Health Innovation Ecosystem in the WHO European Region
Authors:   Organised by: WHO/Europe, EUPHA,   Chair persons: Iveta Nagyova (EUPHA), Moredreck Chibi (Denmark)
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
In the WHO European region, challenges persist in bridging the gap between innovative health solutions and their widespread implementation at a population scale. Despite advancements in AI, digital systems, precision medicine, genomics, and social innovations, these potential solutions often go underutilized. Immediate action is necessary to address the multifaceted issues faced by health systems, such as aging populations, noncommunicable diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and climate change impacts on health. To effectively tackle these challenges, it is essential to develop and implement innovations that respond to critical health issues in a contextual manner. Establishing an innovation ecosystem that fosters collaboration, strategic partnerships, and effective scaling of innovative solutions is crucial. Robust policy frameworks and governance mechanisms are needed to engage with the private sector and other nontraditional public health partners to drive equitable and value-driven innovations in public health.

Rationale
The workshop at the 17th European Public Health Conference 2024 aims to explore the role of public-private collaborations in driving innovative solutions for public health. By examining synergies between sectors, the workshop seeks to accelerate innovation, improve preventive services, and enhance health delivery to address pressing public health challenges. Leveraging the private sector’s expertise and resources is crucial in addressing complex health issues and improving public health outcomes. The workshop will provide a platform to strategize on utilizing these collaborations for sustainable innovation in public health.

Overall Objective
Foster a deeper understanding of the benefits and challenges of public-private collaborations in advancing public health innovation.

Specific Objectives
- Facilitate knowledge exchange on successful collaboration models between the private sector and public health entities.
- Identify key strategies to utilize private sector resources for innovative public health solutions.
Outcomes:
- Inspire the formation of new partnerships to drive innovation in public health.
- Develop actionable insights to enhance collaboration between the private sector and public health stakeholders for sustainable innovation.
Workshop Structure: The workshop will begin with a Scene-setting presentation of Dr Gauden Galea, Strategic Advisor to the Regional Director, WHO Europe, on WHO Europe’s approach to leveraging innovation for public health outcomes (10 mins). Panelists will then discuss concrete examples of public-private collaboration leading to improvements in public health outcomes (40 mins). Key success factors for meaningful partnerships with the private sector will be explored, emphasizing policy considerations and the importance of behavioral and cultural insights in innovation. Interactive Q&A session with audience will close the meeting (10 mins).

Key messages
• Establishing an innovation ecosystem fosters partnerships that drive equitable and sustainable solutions in public health.
• Public-private collaborations accelerate innovation for public health, vital for addressing complex challenges effectively.

Speakers/Panelists
Götz Gottschalk,
YouTube, Berlin, Germany
Götz Gottschalk (Head of Health, YouTube Germany) will discuss the role of technology, particularly YouTube, in disseminating accurate health information to the public. He will also share insights on how digital platforms can be utilized to promote public health initiatives, address misinformation, and engage with diverse audiences effectively. His talk will also focus on the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in leveraging technology for public health outcomes, emphasizing the need for responsible and accurate health communication in the digital age.
Phillippe Menu
SOPHiA Genetics, Rolle, Switzerland
Phillippe Menu (Chief Medical Officer and Chief Product Officer, SOPHiA Genetics, Switzerland) will discuss how data-driven approaches, artificial intelligence, and genomic insights can revolutionize diagnostics, treatment decisions, and personalized medicine. His talk will highlight the potential of integrating advanced technologies into public health to improve patient outcomes, enhance clinical decision-making, and drive innovation in the field of precision medicine.
Els Torreele
Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose, University College London, London, UK
Els Torreele (Policy Associate, UCL Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose) will discuss policy frameworks, governance structures, and strategies to promote equitable access to public health innovations, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Her talk will shed light on the intersection of innovation, public policy, and global health, emphasizing the importance of addressing systemic barriers to ensure that innovative healthcare solutions reach those who need them the most.
Andrew Nerlinger
Global Security Fund, Geneva, Switzerland
Andrew Nerlinger (Executive Director, Global Security Fund) will discuss pandemic preparedness, biosecurity measures, and the role of non-profit organizations in addressing global health threats. His talk will explore how innovative approaches, partnerships, and funding mechanisms can strengthen global health security, mitigate risks, and build resilience in the face of emerging health crises.
Susan Michie
Centre for Behaviour Change, University College London, London, UK
Susan Michie (Professor of Health Psychology and Director of the UCL Centre for Behaviour Change) will discuss evidence-based strategies for promoting behavior change, improving health outcomes, and addressing public health challenges through behavioural and cultural insights. Her talk is expected to highlight the importance of understanding human behavior, motivations, and decision-making processes in designing effective health interventions and shaping public health policies.