Friday, February 28, 2025
MESSAGE FROM TANISHA THE VANGUARD
Welcome to the inaugural edition of The Vanguard!
I am thrilled to embark on this storytelling journey with you as we shine a light on the innovation, impact, and relentless efforts shaping our work
And wow…we have so many great stories to tell. The Vanguard is a resource for learning about Sanofi’s groundbreaking health equity initiatives and the partners who help us make a difference. The stories, collaborations, and innovations featured on these pages are a testament to what we can accomplish when we come together with a shared purpose and action.
Picturecredit:PatGreenhouse,TheBostonGlobe
Tanisha Sullivan, Head of Health Equity Strategy & External Engagement
“Advancing health equity is in our DNA.”
Everyday Sanofians drive innovation to address complex health challenges, collaborate with decision-makers, empower stakeholder voices, and work to dismantle barriers to access to give patients the chance to experience their optimal health We never settle To be clear, The Vanguard is more than a summary of activity. It is designed to celebrate our achievements, challenge us to act with urgency, and empower us to think boldly. Most importantly, The Vanguard embodies Sanofi’s unwavering commitment to chase the miracles of science to improve peoples’s lives not just some people, but all people.
As we learn about the impactful work happening on teams across our company, it’s clear that Sanofi’s efforts are far from theoretical they are the foundation of a movement A movement that is fueled by our tenacity to deliver better and faster, for more patients ensuring innovation, improving outcomes, and transforming care at every step.
We know that improving health outcomes for all people and breaking down barriers to access will not happen overnight. We also know that on the journey to better, it is important to take the time to celebrate progress made as we reach for even higher heights. Thank you for being a part of this journey.
Together, we will continue to turn vision into action and action into lasting impact.
At the Vanguard,
Tanisha
MESSAGE FROM ADAM TOGETHER TOWARD A HEALTHIER FUTURE
AswecelebrateBlackHistory Month,wehonorthestrength andresilienceofthe communitiesthatpavedthe wayforjusticeandequality. Theirlegacyfuelsour determinationtodrivechange andemphasizestheimportance ofstandingtogetherin solidarity
Adam Gluck, Head , US & Specialty Care Corporate Affairs
Dear Vanguard Readers,
As we embark on this transformative journey towards optimal health and better access, we are reminded of the powerful words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: "Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and inhuman." This profound truth underlines our mission as we strive to dismantle the barriers to accessible healthcare and create a future where everyone, regardless of background, has access to the resources and care they need.
Reflecting on our progress, it’s clear that we have made significant strides. Our collaborative efforts have laid a strong foundation, and our commitment to this cause continues to inspire change.
However, we recognize that the path forward is fraught with challenges. The journey to achieving optimal health outcomes is not a sprint but a relay, demanding resilience, dedication, collaboration, and a steadfast belief in our mission.
Our vision for this initiative is bold and clear: to create an actionable strategy that addresses the disparities in healthcare access and quality while fostering an inclusive environment where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered. Through this newsletter, the team aims to ignite conversations, share insights, and mobilize efforts across all levels of our organization.
Iinviteeachofyoutoengage withthisvisionandcontribute youruniqueperspectivesand expertise.Together,wecan transformthisambitiousdream intoareality Letusharnessour collectiveenergytocreatea rippleeffectthatextends beyondourcompany, influencingthebroader landscapeofglobalhealth outcomes.
Thankyouforyourdedication, passion,andunwavering commitmenttothisnoble cause Together,letusbethe change-makers,unitedbyour sharedpurposeandguidedby thespiritofjusticeand community.
Together in purpose and action,
Friday, February 28, 2025
LEARNING CORNER: “KNOWLEDGE UP”
TACKLING SOCIAL DRIVERS OF HEALTH: SANOFI’S COMMITMENT TO OPTIMAL HEALTH OUTCOMES
“At Sanofi, we understand that true health and well-being extend far beyond a doctor’s office or a diagnosis.”
Millions of people face barriers like costly treatment, fragmented care, and unsafe living conditions factors known as social drivers of health (SDOH), including housing, transportation, and air quality, profoundly shape health outcomes and quality of life Social [drivers], such as financial resources and housing stability, account for between 30-55% of people’s health outcomes ”(WHO) When these conditions overlap, health risks multiply
One stark example is maternal health Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than white women (CDC) These disparities stem from differences in healthcare quality, chronic conditions, and the compounded effects of social drivers of health. Additionally, more than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable with reasonable changes to patient care, community resources, and healthcare system factors (CDC).
These inequities underscore the need for targeted, community-driven solutions to strengthen the public health infrastructure
Systemic barriers to care not only hinder individual wellbeing but perpetuate cycles of inequity When communities grow accustomed to “living with” certain conditions, less optimal health becomes the norm, requiring both education and support to show that better health is possible.
“We are committed to addressing these systemic barriers because they directly impact the communities we serve.”
While we are proud to develop innovative medicines, we know our work must go beyond science to ensure every patient can access and benefit from our innovations. We aim to match the innovation of our Science with action that tackles the root causes of health disparities.
To that end, we are designing more inclusive clinical trials to better represent diverse populations, collaborating with community organizations to improve health literacy and partnering with grassroots organizations to ensure our strategies align with the needs of impacted communities.
For us, addressing social drivers of health is more than a public health priority —it reflects our core values By fostering trust, driving innovation, and advancing health equity, we are working toward a future where no one is left behind. Together, through science and strategic collaborations, we can help create healthier, more vibrant communities worldwide.
For those eager to explore further:
Amaya Conner, PharmD, MHSA Post Doctoral Fellow, External Engagement & Healthy Equity Strategy
HEALTH EQUITY IN ACTION
ACTION TODAY, THRIVING COMMUNITIES TOMORROW
We are committed to breaking down barriers to healthcare through Patient Support Programs, advocacy for oncologic biomarker testing, supporting the community healthcare workforce, and tackling social drivers of health like transportation. Through these and many other initiatives, we are innovating to increase access because better health can’t wait.
EMPOWERING ELIGIBLE PATIENTS WITH ACCESS AND SUPPORT
At Sanofi, we are committed to making our treatments accessible to all Our Patient Support Teams help make that happen For eligible patients Sanofi Patient Support and Sanofi Patient Connection programs offer vital resources like medication access, financial aid, and educational tools. These tools empower patients by providing free or reduced-cost treatments for eligible individuals and assigning dedicated case managers for continuous support By addressing both medical and non-medical needs, we strive to enhance health outcomes and quality of life so more people have the opportunity to benefit from our innovative therapies.
BRIDGING SOCIOECONOMIC GAPS IN CANCER CARE
At Sanofi, our mission is to deliver cutting-edge treatments to those navigating health challenges There has been progress in cancer biomarker testing and targeted therapies but access disparities persist, leaving older and Medicaid-insured patients underserved To address this, our Patient Advocacy, Policy and Government Relations teams joined forces with national patient groups and a coalition led by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) at the state level to advocate for biomarker legislation that guarantees access to essential diagnostics and treatments for every community, especially those most affected by cancer Through these initiatives, Sanofi is dedicated to closing access gaps and advancing equitable healthcare for all
Community health workers (CHWs) are unsung heroes in community health. With experience and trust they bridge healthcare gaps, offering vital support to patients in need. As frontline workers, they connect deeply with communities to address medical needs and social drivers of health Sanofi's commitment to community health and CHWs is longstanding, and the impact we’ve had is evident through pioneering tools like the CHWConnector app and advocacy for the Community Health Worker Access Act. Our Government Relations and CSR teams have supported these legislative efforts on Capitol Hill, to helps ensure broader support and integration of CHWs into the healthcare system, reinforcing their pivotal role in reducing health disparities.
EXPANDING ACCESS TO LGBTQ+ HEALTH SERVICES
Healthcare should be accessible to everyone, regardless of where they live Yet, for some people in the LGBTQ+ community, distance and transportation barriers make it difficult to access to the specialized, affirming care they need. That’s why with the support of PRIDE Connect, Sanofi is proud to support transportation services to the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Babs Siperstein PROUD Center for LGBTQIA+ Health in Somerset, NJ, helping patients especially those facing long-distance travel connect with essential healthcare By addressing transportation barriers, we are expanding access to care and reinforcing our commitment to achieving optimal health outcomes and ensuring that all communities receive the support they need.
HEALTH EQUITY IN ACTION
TRANSFORMING HEALTHCARE: GLOBAL INSIGHTS, LOCAL IMPACT
AtUSNews'"HealthcareofTomorrow:The PolicyPerspective"discussioninWashington, DC,presentedbySanofi,Iwitnessedhealthcare transformationinaction.The"Buildingthe FutureofHealthcare"panel,featuringTanisha Sullivanalongsideotherexperts,brought togetheravarietyofperspectivesunitedbya commonpurpose:revolutionizingAmerican healthcaretodeliverinnovative,accessible,and affordablecareforallpeople.
AsaFrenchhealthcareprofessionalnewtothe U.S.system,Ibringauniquelenstothisdialogue. ComingfromFrance’suniversalhealthcare system,whereaccesstocareisagivenand medicaleducationdoesn’tburdenstudentswith debt,Ifindbothsystemsfacetheuniversal challengesoftechnologicalintegration, workforcedevelopment,andensuring equitablecaredelivery.
Looking Forward:
How can we harness AI while maintaining healthcare's human touch?
What can different healthcare systems learn from each other How do we ensure innovation reaches all communities equitably?
Key Takeaways
1. Innovation with Purpose
Technology advancement – through AI, telehealth, and smart devices – must focus on meaningful implementation. Like Amazon and Netflix's industry transformations, healthcare innovation should enhance accessibility while reducing costs.
2. Health Literacy as a Cornerstone
Beyond creating sophisticated healthcare tools, we must ensure patients understand and can effectively use them
This means developing solutions that consider diverse literacy levels, cultural contexts, and technological comfort – making healthcare truly accessible to all 3 Coverage and Cost Innovation
Creative approaches to expanding coverage while managing costs demonstrate how technology and policy can work together, making healthcare more affordable without compromising quality
Ourpositionasaprivatehealthcareinnovationcompany uniquelyenablesustobridgetechnologicalcapabilitieswith communityneeds.Wecanensureinnovationsaddressreal challengeswhilepromotingequity,partneracrosssectors,and learnfromglobalperspectiveswhilesolvinglocalproblems
Thepathforwardisn'taboutchoosingbetweeninnovation andequity-it'saboutachievingbothtogether.
Oursharedmissiontranscendsbordersandbackgrounds: buildingahealthcaresystemthatcombinescutting-edge innovationwithunwaveringcommitmenttoequitable, accessible,andaffordablecareforall
Shadé Floquet, PharmD, MSc Associate Director Health Equity, Data & Innovation
Friday, February 28, 2025
QUARTERLY MILESTONE
ACE YOUR HEALTH
Our commitment to advancing actionable and measurable health solutions is embodied in the ACE Your Health initiative— a collaboration between the NAACP and Sanofi designed to improve health literacy, tackle social drivers of health, and build trust in emerging technologies like A.I. to help improve health outcomes. We were excited to officially launch this initiative in January.
To provide deeper insight into our vision and impact of our work we are honored to feature Dr. Tony Price, Senior Fellow at the NAACP Center for Health Equity:
Good afternoon! I’m Dr. Tony Price, Senior Fellow at the NAACP’s Center for Health Equity. I bring expertise in chronic disease prevention and rural health insights, and I’m thrilled to support NAACP’s efforts. The NAACP and Sanofi have launched the ACE Your Health collaboration to advance health outcomes nationwide.
ACE stands for Actionable Insights, Community Assets, and Emerging Technologies, focusing on research, policy advocacy, and innovation to drive equitable health outcomes This initiative uses a racially inclusive lens to integrate AI, machine learning, and other tools into healthcare policy and practice
Spanning 15 cities from Los Angeles to Charlotte, this collaboration fosters engagement between industry leaders, policymakers and communities. Together, NAACP and Sanofi are leveraging data-driven insights, community engagement, and artificial intelligence to create lasting, equitable outcomes at a national scale. I look forward to the incredible work that lies ahead!
Dr. Tony Price, Senior Fellow, NAACP Center for Health Equity
Friday, February 28, 2025
ACE YOUR HEALTH - LOS ANGELES
This month Sanofi co-hosted an activation with the NAACP in Los Angeles, CA. The activation brought together public health experts, thought leaders, and an engaged audience of mayors, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community members for a powerful discussion on the impact of climate and environmental conditions, like wild and urban fires, on health and well-being.
The forum was moderated by Carrie Champion and anchored by a dynamic panel of leaders:
Dr. Joseph R. Betancourt President & CEO of the Commonwealth Fund.
Dr. Karen Lincoln Director, Center for Environmental Health Disparities Research
Wilberta Richardson President, NAACP Altadena Branch
Mayor Van Johnson Mayor, City of Savannah,GA
Key Takeaways
Environmental health is public health –Communities already facing health disparities may be disproportionately affected by environmental hazards and disasters.
Systemic change is essential –Addressing social drivers of health is critical for recovery and long-term resilience.
Collaboration fuels progress – Crosssector partnerships are key to closing care gaps, shaping policy, and building sustainable solutions.
Friday, February 28, 2025
ON THE GROUND: STORIES FROM OUR CITIES SPOTLIGHT ON LOS ANGELES COUNTY, CA
In this issue of the Vanguard, we shine a light on Los Angeles County a vibrant region with a complex social and environmental landscape.
“Life expectancy at birth in Los Angeles County is projected to be 3.6 years above the national level, however a closer look at public health data uncovers significant disparities in health outcomes between different communities.”
In neighborhoods like Beverly Hills, residents enjoy a life expectancy of 85 years, while in South Los Angeles, it drops to just 75 years. These disparities highlight the role that economic factors can play in driving health outcomes
Additionally environmental challenges, including recent wildfires have exacerbated vulnerabilities in middle and lower income communities, particularly in areas with poor air quality and limited healthcare access.
These events underscore the need for resilient healthcare systems capable of adapting to and mitigating environmental impacts on health.
In the LA county, Community Health Equity Improvement Plan (CHEIP) 2024 - 2029 remains at the forefront of efforts to improve health outcomes This plan targets critical issues like maternal mortality, chronic diseases, and health literacy, with specific initiatives designed to empower women through education and community engagement Programs focusing on maternal health and chronic disease management are vital in providing resources to enhance health outcomes
Innovative efforts, such as transforming barbershops into mental health hubs for young men, represent a culturally sensitive approach to addressing mental health needs within the community.
that
serve more than just haircuts, but places where healthcare was provided onsite.
For those eager to explore further:
CEO and founder of TRAP Medicine, Jahmil Lacey says
barbershops
LEARNING CORNER: “KNOWLEDGE UP”
THE POWER OF IMPACT: HARNESSING DATA AND KPI’S FOR BETTER HEALTH OUTCOMES
Sanofi commitment’s to health equity is unwavering and we are laser focused on improved health outcomes and measuring our impact.
In a world increasingly driven by data, its power to shape our lives and society is undeniable. While we often celebrate scientific breakthroughs, we must also embrace the transformative potential of data analysis, especially in public health
“Data serves as the silent narrator of our lives”
guiding decisions and shaping policies that affect us all During the COVID-19 pandemic, data was indispensable It highlighted critical disparities among ethnicities and social groups and showed the life-saving effects of vaccines and screenings. Data helps us understand the distribution of health issues. Therefore, when we build data systems to assess our impact in the society, we should automatically include an equity lens.
This numeric narrative empowered public health officials to track, strategize, and implement interventions that saved countless lives
To dive deeper, watch: CDCCOVIDDataTracker:Home
“At Sanofi, we are committed to harnessing this power to deliver equitable healthcare solutions. “
As part of our health equity strategy, we're launching a collective dashboard to monitor metrics, aligning our efforts with the right policies and partnerships to enhance health outcomes for all communities. By prioritizing data, we aim to address unique challenges faced by diverse populations, ensuring that science benefits everyone.
Our 2023 Inclusion and Social Impact Report illustrates our commitment, showcasing achievements like reaching millions through educational initiatives and enhancing clinical diversity Our 2025 health equity metrics will be integrated into a real-time dashboard, predicting trends and measuring the impact of our project outcomes.
With well-defined KPIs, we can better distribute resources, prioritize interventions, and advocate for policy changes that dismantle systemic barriers. Consider life expectancy: two centuries ago, a third of us died in infancy, yet today, data-driven policies have increased our average lifespan by three decades
As we embrace data's power, let us remember: Together, we can build a healthier, more equitable world where everyone thrives.
Friday, February 28, 2025
QUARTERLY PLAYLIST
CURATED INSPIRATION: LISTEN, WATCH & READ
This quarter, we celebrate the pioneers of social justice, civil rights and health, honoring Black History Month and Women’s History Month. Through the selected books, music, and movies, we find hope and inspiration in their courageous journeys and lasting impact. Let’s embrace their legacies and continue the pursuit of a brighter, more equitable future.
BOOKS FOR EMPOWERMENT : TRANSFORMATIVE TABLE OF COURAGE AND COMMUNITY
Discover a selection of books that delve into the intricacies of societal structures, exploring themes of systemic change, health, and community resilience:
TheColorofLaw:AForgottenHistoryof HowOurGovernmentSegregatedAmerica
Author:RichardRothstein
Date:Publishedin2017
WhyRead:Thiseye-openingbookrevealsthe government'sroleinenforcingracialsegregationin America,challengingtheideathatneighborhoods becamesegregatedsolelythroughprivateactions. Ithighlightsthesystemicbarrierstoequalityand inspiresreaderstounderstandandaddressthe rootsofracialinjustice
[FindonAmazon]
Take US to a Better Place Stories
Curated by: Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
Why Read: A collection of 10 short stories that invites you to explore our perception of health and society Dive into these thought-provoking tales that inspire change and envision a brighter future for us all Discover how storytelling can ignite hope and drive us toward a better world
[Explore Here]
Friday, February 28, 2025
MUSIC FOR WELL-BEING
Energize your day with this harmonious blend of hope, empowerment, and unity
Feel empowered with Stevie Wonder Living for the city
Embrace hope with Bob Marley & the Wailers Redemption song
Stand tall with Aretha Franklin Respect
Fight for Justice with Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar Freedom
Reflect deeply with Ray Charles Georgia on My Mind
Unleash Power with Beyoncé Run the world (Girls)
Experience transformation with Sam Cooke A Change is Gonna Come Triumph with John Legend Glory from Common
Uplift your spirit with Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell Ain’t No Mountain High Enough Find courage with Fugees Ready or Not
Celebrate inclusivity with Macklemore Same Love
FILMS OF CHANGE: INSPIRING STORIES OF JUSTICE AND EQUALITY
Explore these compelling documentaries that illuminate pivotal moments and figures in history, highlighting themes of women’s bravery, inclusivity, and the courage to fight for civil rights
KING RUSTIN THE SIX TRIPLE EIGHT
Author: Directed by Sidney Lumet and Joseph L. Mankiewicz
Date: Released in 1970
Why Watch: Witness Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s transformative leadership in the civil rights movement, showcasing the power of peaceful protest and the fight for equality.
[Watch on Amazon, Apple TV ]
Author: Directed by George C. Wolfe
Date: Released in 2023
Why Watch: Discover the inspiring life of Bayard Rustin, a key strategist behind the 1963 March on Washington, highlighting the importance of advocacy and inclusivity in leadership.
[Watch on Netflix]
Author: Directed by David Williams
Date: Released in 2024
Why Watch: Learn about the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, an all-black, allfemale battalion in WWII, emphasizing resilience and the vital contributions of women in history.
[Watch on Netflix]
Friday, February 28, 2025
CALL TO ACTION
LET’S CONTINUE THE MOMENTUM
Every action matters, and your voice plays an essential role in shaping the future of achieving optimal health outcomes. As you read through this newsletter, we encourage you to reflect on the incredible work happening across the organization and consider how you can contribute to this collective effort.
Share Your Insights: Have a story, resource, or initiative to spotlight? Let us know so we can feature it in future editions.
Spread the Word: Share The Vanguard with your internal networks to inspire and engage others in this critical movement.
