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Roche Champions a Unified Vision for Transformative Healthcare at HealthTech Ireland’s Symposium 25

Man speaking passionately at a podium during the HealthTech Ireland event, with a backdrop of blue curtains and signage. Engaged and dynamic atmosphere.

Roche Ireland is proud to sponsor a key session at HealthTech Ireland’s Symposium 25, entitled “A Unified Vision for Transformative Healthcare.” As part of our commitment to driving innovation in Irish healthcare, Kevin Walsh, Roche’s Government and Policy Lead, joined other thought leaders to discuss the future of healthcare in Ireland and the crucial role of a National Life Sciences Strategy.

Ireland stands at the forefront of healthcare innovation, with a thriving life sciences industry developing cutting-edge medicines, medical devices, and biotechnology. The Irish Government’s development of a National Life Sciences Strategy offers a unique opportunity – not only to grow skills, jobs, and economic prosperity – but also to improve the health and well-being of people across the nation.

At Roche, we believe this strategy must go beyond economic impact. It should ensure every patient in Ireland has timely access to the latest healthcare advances. Currently, Irish patients face some of the longest waits in Europe for new medicines, with access times averaging 645 days compared to the EU average of 586 days. A national strategy can help bridge this gap, enabling faster, broader access to innovative therapies that improve outcomes and quality of life.

The strategy can also bolster Ireland’s participation in clinical trials, offering patients earlier access to new treatments – especially those for whom existing options are limited. Increased clinical trial activity not only advances science but delivers real hope to patients and families.

Finally, a robust Life Sciences Strategy can accelerate the digital transformation of healthcare, empowering patients with better access to their own health data and supporting a truly interconnected health system.

Roche is committed to working with partners across the healthcare ecosystem – including government, patient groups, healthcare professionals and industry colleagues – to ensure that the National Life Sciences Strategy delivers on its promise: a healthier, more innovative Ireland where every patient can benefit from world-class science and care.

Two men stand by a table featuring a banner, participating in an event.
A man in a suit gestures while speaking at a panel discussion, with a focused expression. A woman in blue sits beside him, listening intently.
A woman speaks confidently at a podium with microphones, set against a blue backdrop. The sign reads “Symposium25.” She wears a blue top, conveying a professional tone.
Two women engaged in conversation while seated in chairs at a conference setting.
A woman wearing glasses sits in a chair, attentively listening at a conference.
A woman in a blue dress sits thoughtfully in a panel discussion. She holds a pen and wears a microphone earpiece, with a blue background.

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