The University of Southern California (USC) is actively pursuing collaborations with Indian institutions and companies to address common healthcare challenges, particularly the management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Steven Chen, USC’s Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs and William A. and Josephine A. Heeres Chair in Community Pharmacy, expressed a strong interest in tapping into India’s expertise and exploring collaborative opportunities during his recent visit.
“There are many areas where we can collaborate and learn from each other,” said Chen. “India faces similar challenges to the U.S. with the rising prevalence of NCDs and an aging population. We can share our expertise, especially in AI, which helps us manage and analyze large datasets, accelerating drug discovery and development by up to 50% while lowering costs.”
A key area of focus is strengthening the role of pharmacists. Chen noted that while pharmacists in India often serve as the first point of contact for healthcare, their training and scope of practice may require enhancement. USC plans to share its advanced pharmacy training programs, emphasizing clinical skills and evidence-based practices to improve patient care.
“Our training programs, including patient simulations, will help equip Indian pharmacists with the necessary skills to manage chronic conditions effectively,” Chen explained.
Additionally, USC is keen on collaborating in clinical research. With India’s efficient research systems and diverse population, the country presents valuable opportunities for impactful clinical trials.
“We can leverage India’s strengths in research to accelerate drug development and enhance healthcare outcomes for both nations,” Chen added.
Chen also emphasized the need for community-based healthcare solutions, stressing the importance of innovative strategies to deliver quality care to underserved populations, particularly in rural areas.
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