In this episode of Global Health Unpacked on OncoDaily, host Dr. Gvantsa Khizanishvili seats with Herb Riband, Executive Director of Access Accelerated, to talk about one of the biggest challenges facing healthcare systems worldwide: how to sustainably finance the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer. As global health funding priorities continue to shift, countries are facing increasing pressure to address rising rates of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions while operating under significant budget constraints.
Herb Riband shares insights into how global health financing is evolving, the challenges countries face in funding comprehensive cancer care, and why integrated, patient-centered approaches are essential. The discussion explores the role of primary healthcare, diagnostic services, specialized treatment centers, and long-term follow-up care in creating effective cancer care pathways. The conversation also highlights real-world examples from countries such as Kenya, Somalia, and Uganda, showcasing innovative financing strategies and lessons learned in strengthening health systems.
Herb Riband also talks about the growing importance of multilateral development banks, public-private partnerships, innovative financing mechanisms, and country-led solutions in building sustainable and resilient healthcare systems. He emphasizes the need for collaboration among governments, donors, civil society, academia, and the private sector to improve access to quality care for patients living with cancer and other NCDs.
