Mohit Manrao, Senior Vice President and Head of US Oncology at AstraZeneca and President of the AstraZeneca Foundation, credits his early exposure to engineering and innovation through his father’s work as the inspiration behind his career in healthcare. He emphasizes the importance of embracing diverse perspectives and exploring unconventional approaches in finding solutions to complex challenges, which has guided his work in transforming lives through innovation and problem-solving.
In his role as a leader in medicine, Manrao has gained insights into the factors contributing to health disparities and provides recommendations on how healthcare professionals can help ensure equitable access to care and promote community well-being. He stresses the need to reach beyond the healthcare system to address those who face barriers to entry, such as education, awareness, or systemic disparities, through targeted interventions like patient navigators and mobile clinics.
Manrao highlights the importance of meeting communities where they are by adopting a tailored approach that considers the cultural, social, and economic contexts of different populations. He emphasizes the value of collaborating with key partners, including community leaders, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups, to gain diverse insights and develop sustainable solutions. By actively listening to various perspectives and engaging others in program development, healthcare leaders can create effective and culturally appropriate interventions.
Through partnerships and initiatives like the CHANGE initiative and Connections for Cardiovascular Health (CCH), AstraZeneca is working to enhance access to quality healthcare for underserved populations facing barriers related to race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. These targeted interventions and collaborations with nonprofit organizations aim to improve cardiovascular health and bridge the gap in healthcare disparities. Manrao believes that strategic partnerships and innovative approaches can help ensure equitable healthcare for all individuals, regardless of their background or ZIP code.
Manrao recognizes the potential of AI-powered analytics in advancing health equity and improving access to care. By leveraging machine learning and predictive analytics to identify at-risk populations and tailor preventive care strategies, healthcare leaders can meet communities where they are and drive positive transformation in healthcare services. By prioritizing training and education to empower teams to effectively utilize these tools, healthcare organizations can maximize the benefits of AI-powered innovations and enhance patient care delivery.
While there are challenges to achieving health equity, Manrao is optimistic that through collective efforts and continued innovation, a future where healthcare is accessible to all individuals is possible. He acknowledges the progress that has been made but emphasizes the need for further work to create a healthier future for all. As a member of the Forbes Business Council, Manrao continues to advocate for inclusive healthcare practices and equitable access to care for all individuals.
