Novartis Vietnam and FPT Long Châu pharmacy chain sign a cooperation agreement to implement the Heart Protection project to improve the quality of healthcare for cardiovascular patients in Việt Nam on August 15. — Photo courtesy of Novartis

HCM CITY — Novartis Vietnam and FPT Long Châu pharmacy chain on August 15 signed a cooperation agreement to implement the Heart Protection project to improve the quality of healthcare for cardiovascular patients in Việt Nam.

The project will focus on strengthening the consultation capabilities of pharmacists in different therapeutic areas including cardiovascular, diabetes, oncology, and ophthalmology along with improving awareness in the community and supporting patients with early screening and detection of cardiovascular diseases and treatment compliance.

It includes specific activities such as strengthening pharmacists’ consultation efficiency, developing healthcare projects on digital platforms, coordinating to implement patient-community education programmes, and collaborating with local distributors to ensure the supply of high-quality drugs is available and accessible to meet the treatment needs of patients.

"Improving the quality of pharmacist consultation and increasing patient awareness are our top priorities. Novartis hopes that the cooperation project with FPT Long Châu will contribute to reducing the burden on Việt Nam’s healthcare system," said Karina Ng, Country President, Novartis Vietnam.

Nguyễn Đỗ Quyên, managing director, FPT Long Châu Pharma JSC, said, “it is our top priority to keep the commitment in ensuring the supply of high-quality medicines to patients with reasonable price. We accompany patients on their journey to fight against their illness.

“This partnership with Novartis once again affirms the mission and goal of Long Châu in being ready to serve public health, fully meet all the needs of healthcare products for Vietnamese with reasonable price and outstanding services.”

According to WHO, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally, claiming the lives of about 17.9 million people each year. In Việt Nam, cardiovascular disease currently accounts for 31 per cent of all deaths (equivalent to more than 170,000 people) in 2016, with many cases not detected and treated in time.

In addition to congenital causes, cardiovascular disease is a consequence of unhealthy lifestyle, eating habits, alcohol abuse or diabetes-related complications. These “intermediate risk factors” can be diagnosed early, helping to prevent death.

However, due to insufficient knowledge in self-monitoring healthcare as well as difficulties in accessing standard medical conditions, many patients have missed the "golden time" for timely treatment. — VNS