November 21, 2022 – Henry Ford Innovations (HFI), one of the nation’s leading healthcare innovation programs, recently hosted the inaugural “Advancing Health Equity Through Innovation and Collaboration” event in partnership with the PINC AI™ Applied Sciences team, a leading provider of advanced analytics, technology solutions and clinical research support services to the life sciences industry.
The initiative’s purpose was to turn health equity conversations into action by taking measurable steps towards improving the health of millions. Participants included global leaders in life sciences, as well as Henry Ford Health innovators who are already implementing programs to address health disparities in groups who have been historically marginalized and underrepresented.
The two-day event in late October included a presentation of case studies from successful Henry Ford Health programs, including community-based partnerships to increase health screenings. That program found that a lack of trust in institutions can deter people from getting preventative care and that using community partners for healthcare services can reduce barriers and increase access to care. Other case studies covered programs to improve hypertension in young African American men and reduce infant mortality among underserved populations. The unique action-focused event allowed leaders from Henry Ford Health, the PINC AI™ Applied Sciences team and collaborators from eight global life sciences companies to meet, connect and work together on ways to amplify and expand pilot programs.
Because of Henry Ford Health’s community connections and its long-standing work to improve diversity, equity, inclusion and justice (DEIJ), the health system is a leader in researching and tackling health disparities in Detroit. In 2021, Henry Ford launched a new initiative to improve the representation of African American people in cancer clinical trials. It was an important collaboration, especially considering that recent research shows 85 percent of participants in clinical trials are white. Another program supported by HFI provides medical mentorship and internship opportunities for Detroit-based high school students. Both initiatives serve as examples of the meaningful change health and life sciences organizations can affect together.
Henry Ford Health and the PINC AI™ Applied Sciences team will now work with the summit’s participating partners to strengthen and scale solutions to advance health equity.