They play an important role in reform discussions and referendum campaigns. But what do the various associations stand for and what are their visions? Get an overview in our series “Swiss pharmaceutical associations.” Today, we introduce you to the professional association GRIP-Pharma (Groupement Romand de l’Industrie Pharmaceutique) and ask its president, René Jenny, a few questions.
Voice of Romandie in healthcare
René Jenny, what is currently on your mind?
Without wanting to be negative, I’m afraid I have to say that there are many very problematic issues at the moment. In particular, I am concerned about the increasing deterioration in the political and economic environment. Overregulation, both in health legislation and in general, is causing headaches for many. With regard to the current initiative “Yes to medical care security,” the focus is also on the secure care of Swiss patients, as this is being jeopardized by, among other things, the pricing policy for drugs and the existing reimbursement regulations. Finally, our unresolved relations with the EU are an enormous problem that is still largely underestimated.
What is your most important political concern?
Due to the challenges mentioned above, there is a risk that we will not be able to maintain our high-quality healthcare system – this is confirmed year after year by the population.
That is why we attach great importance to maintaining and developing the level of competence in the healthcare sector and the associated capital, so that we can secure both innovation and financing. We are committed to this politically.
For what purpose was GRIP Pharma founded?
For what purpose was GRIP Pharma founded?
GRIP was formed in 1987 from the merger of two French-speaking associations, primarily to make better use of the available resources. The life science companies in French-speaking Switzerland, which are important for the whole of Switzerland, needed to be better represented at both cantonal and national level.
What motivated companies in French-speaking Switzerland to form a separate association?
The aim was to provide French-speaking Swiss companies with a platform. A platform that is active in representing the interests of the life sciences industry through specific political working groups. The networking opportunities that we provide thanks to the various working groups are also of great importance. For example, we have a working group for regulatory affairs that meets regularly and ensures that all members have easier, documented access to the constantly changing regulations.
We have also set up a very efficient group for QP/RP tasks, which enables our members to stay up to date with the latest developments. The numerous services and training opportunities in these areas are greatly appreciated by our members.
Another important concern of our members is to ensure, with our help, that French-speaking Switzerland has an appropriate presence at the national level. We do not operate alone in the life sciences world and actively collaborate with other interest groups and associations both within and outside the industry. In a sense, we complement each other where it is mutually beneficial and expedient.
Successes of the association and personal motivation
What success would you describe as a milestone for the association?
Through our long-standing commitment, we have helped the life sciences industry in French-speaking Switzerland to officially take a stand on sensitive health care issues at the national level and express its opinion. This enables us to draw the attention of all national political and executive regulatory authorities to companies in French-speaking Switzerland and to ensure that the legitimate needs and demands of our members are given appropriate consideration. The continued interest of our members and their participation in our various platforms confirms that we are on the right track and that we are still needed.
What is your personal motivation for leading the association?
Romandy is close to my heart! It is not very positive to have to conclude that French-speaking Switzerland is considered a “quantité négligeable” in many areas of our industry. It is essential that French-speaking Switzerland is represented among pharmaceutical policy stakeholders. That is why, after working internationally and nationally, I am now focusing specifically on the region.
Continue mission, deepen focus areas
Finally: should the association develop?
Continuing our mission as a platform for exchange and support for life science companies is of fundamental importance.
We want to further deepen our knowledge of pharmaceutical policy issues and expand our continuing education offerings, as these two areas are of particular interest to our members.
We want to contribute to the creation of framework conditions that enable the healthy and steady development of companies in French-speaking Switzerland.
Conclusion
René Jenny makes it clear that the pharmaceutical industry in western Switzerland faces major political and regulatory challenges. GRIP-Pharma ensures that the interests of French-speaking Switzerland are heard at the national level and that companies remain capable of acting. Reliable framework conditions, innovative capacity, and secure patient care are crucial for the future.
