New Delhi: Haleon, formerly known as GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare, has launched its ‘HealthNxt’ initiative on November 14, 2024, to transform healthcare access and education across India. In collaboration with WPP, the initiative aims to leverage digital innovation, content, and technology to make healthcare more accessible and raise awareness about health in communities throughout the country.
Driven by its core purpose of ‘Delivering Better Everyday Health with Humanity,’ Haleon acknowledges the significant barriers to healthcare that exist in India, including issues of affordability, awareness, and access to technology. Through the #HealthInMoreHands initiative, Haleon seeks to democratize healthcare, empower individuals to take control of their health, and enhance healthcare education and accessibility. By utilizing content, technology, and strategic partnerships, HealthNxt will provide accessible health information, expand product availability through diverse channels, and create innovative solutions that make a tangible difference in the lives of millions.
The launch event featured a series of insightful panels and fireside chats, starting with a conversation between Navneet Saluja, General Manager – BU, India Sub-continent, Haleon, and Kedar Lele, MD of Castrol, on the topic ‘The Significance of being Consumer-Obsessed Today’. Other sessions delved into key topics like how technology can improve health education and diagnosis, the role of digital commerce in broadening access, influencers promoting healthier lifestyles, and the potential of AI, data, and XR in delivering personalized health solutions.
Industry leaders such as Gulshan Verma (CEO, JioAds), Rajnil Mallik (Partner & Gen AI GTM Leader, PwC India), Anish Shrivastav (Revenue Head, Blinkit), Siddhartha Nihalani (Co-Founder, Practo), Saurabh Aggarwal (President, HealthifyMe), and fitness icon Milind Soman were among the key speakers at the event, sharing insights into the future of healthcare and digital transformation.
Speaking about the HealthNxt initiative, Navneet Saluja, General Manager – BU, India Sub-continent, Haleon, said, “In India, access to quality healthcare is often a privilege, not a right. Millions face daunting barriers – from the sheer number of people needing care exceeding available resources, to geographical limitations, affordability challenges, and a lack of awareness about preventative health. HealthNxt is not just an initiative; it’s our commitment at Haleon to dismantle these barriers and democratize healthcare for a billion people. By harnessing the power of technology, fostering impactful partnerships, and focusing on education and accessibility, we’re taking a decisive step towards a future where everyone has the opportunity to live a healthier life.”
Anurita Chopra, Chief Marketing Officer, Haleon ISC, added, “HealthNxt is our pledge to transform healthcare access across India by empowering individuals and communities. We believe that the current ecosystem is mature enough for consumers to access health education. However, a collective effort from like-minded organizations and partners is crucial to drive this education and create better access to healthcare. This initiative is more than just providing solutions; it’s about building a supportive network that encourages healthier lifestyles and ensures that quality healthcare is within reach for all. Together, we’re paving the way for a healthier tomorrow, one step at a time.”
On the partnership with Haleon, CVL Srinivas, Country Manager – India, WPP, said, “The media and communications landscape is ever-evolving, disrupted by technology like all other industries, including healthcare. Amidst the rapid transformation, it can become challenging for consumers and brands to connect authentically and without misinformation. Events such as ‘HealthNxt’ by Haleon create a platform where brands and the WPP network come together to create better access to healthcare.”
The event concluded with an interactive session aimed at generating innovative solutions in line with Haleon’s flagship brands, reinforcing the company’s ongoing commitment to strategic partnerships and impactful change in the healthcare sector.
