Jayasree Iyer: My letter to President Donald Trump

Jayasree Iyer, CEO of Access to Medicine Foundation, posted on LinkedIn:

“Dear Donald, JD and Robert,

Healthcare is at a crossroads – not just for America, but for the world and today I am writing this letter to share how you can safeguard it for everyone.

The United States today is a global leader in innovation, yet it remains heavily dependent on international allies for essential healthcare products and drug manufacturing. From basic medicines to raw ingredients and even bandages – crucial for treating everything from common infections to cancer and heart disease, a significant portion is sourced from abroad. Countries like Ireland, Germany and Switzerland contribute to this supply chain, while China and India are increasingly leading the U.S. sources for generic pharmaceuticals (57.6% of pharma imports). At least 6% of overall US pharma and 17% of active ingredient are imported from China alone.

Keeping America great and resilient means strengthening alliances with countries globally – not increasing tariffs or blocking imports from countries like Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, China and India. It also means taking a strong stance on safeguarding peace and promoting responsible business practices to ensure a sustainable pharmaceutical supply. Collaboration with global health organisations and investing in robust global health systems aren’t optional – they save lives. These efforts are essential for receiving timely information on pandemics, spreading of new drug-resistant infections and new technologies that can benefit Americans and the world alike.

Trade sanctions and withdrawals from global organizations will create vulnerabilities for your American citizens and your investments in American business. You may say we can build everything on US soil and reclaim independence, but such a shift will take years to implement. In the meantime, cutting off access to global supply chains will drive up costs and will make healthcare unaffordable for many. America, its healthcare system and its people will be left vulnerable and exposed.

The American pharmaceutical industry and its investors are also deeply intertwined with the global system. America’s renowned medical research which brings new medicines for the next superbug or untreatable cancers, depend on global data and materials to drive pharmaceutical innovation. Limiting global engagement compromises these efforts and leaves Americans more vulnerable to future health crises.

Imagine a world where minor cuts, childbirth, or road accidents become life-threatening due to a lack of access to quality medicines. This isn’t a Hollywood movie where Brad Pitt saves the world from a zombie virus – this is a potential reality if we don’t act now.

Mr President, you have the power to ensure that healthcare remains safe, accessible, and innovative for Americans and the world. By promoting collaboration and global partnerships, you can help secure a healthier future for all.

The future of access to medicine, and the lives it saves, is in your hands.

President Donald Trump’s executive orders on global health aid strike at the heart of a critical issue. In my open letter to him, I share why global collaboration is essential to safeguard not just American healthcare, but healthcare for all. We cannot afford to lose access to life-saving medicines and innovation. The cost of turning inward is too high, both for our health and our economy.

Healthcare isn’t just about policies – it’s a matter of personal wellbeing. It’s about whether we can access the treatments we need, rely on a sustainable supply of medicines, and protect our families from the next health crisis.”