In February 2022, the field of RNA therapeutics continued its rapid expansion, with the promise of novel treatments for a wide range of diseases. The ongoing development of RNA-based medicines has garnered significant attention, driven by successes such as mRNA vaccines for COVID-19. These innovative therapies are offering hope for conditions that have been difficult to treat in the past, including certain genetic disorders, cancers, and infectious diseases. As this sector advances, the focus has not only been on scientific breakthroughs but also on ensuring that these innovations are accessible and equitable for all populations.
The growth of RNA therapeutics has been propelled by investments in technology and research. Companies and academic institutions are increasingly focused on optimizing RNA delivery systems, improving stability, and reducing potential side effects. The success of mRNA vaccines has set a new standard for RNA-based drugs, with researchers now exploring their potential in other therapeutic areas. For example, gene-editing techniques, such as CRISPR-Cas9, are being combined with RNA therapies to correct genetic mutations at the molecular level, potentially providing lifelong cures for genetic disorders.
However, the rapid evolution of RNA therapeutics brings to light significant challenges, particularly around health equity. While these advancements hold great promise, there is a growing concern about ensuring that the benefits of these new treatments are accessible to all populations, not just those in high-income countries or wealthier communities. In response to these challenges, Deloitte’s 2022 Global Health Care Outlook placed health equity at the forefront of healthcare discussions. The report emphasized that healthcare organizations must define strategies that promote equitable access to innovations in medicine.
Health equity was highlighted as a top concern for healthcare executives, urging them to rethink how they approach both the development and distribution of treatments. Deloitte’s report proposed a four-domain framework for addressing health equity, urging organizations to evaluate their impact on the following areas: the organization itself, its offerings, its community, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. This framework encourages organizations to not only focus on internal diversity and inclusivity but also on how their products and services can be accessible to underserved and marginalized groups.
For healthcare organizations, ensuring that RNA-based therapies reach a global audience requires addressing systemic inequalities in healthcare access, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The unequal distribution of vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic has been a stark reminder of these disparities. In addition, the cost of cutting-edge treatments must be considered, as many new RNA therapies are expensive to produce and distribute. Partnerships between governments, international organizations, and private industry may play a crucial role in making these therapies more affordable and available to a wider range of populations.
As RNA therapeutics continue to evolve, it is essential that the healthcare industry remains vigilant about the need for equitable access to these life-changing innovations. By prioritizing health equity, the full potential of RNA-based treatments can be realized, benefiting not only the most fortunate but also those who have historically been left behind in healthcare progress.
