The Oxford Academic Health Science Network has entered a strategic partnership with the global healthcare company Johnson & Johnson (J&J).
The Oxford AHSN already enjoys a very productive relationship with J&J which is one of the largest employers linked to healthcare in our region with its headquarters in High Wycombe.
Now the two organisations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to formalise a strategic partnership recognising the synergies between them relating to improving patient care and health outcomes and accelerating access to new innovations and technologies through academic and commercial collaborations.
Oxford AHSN Chief Executive Prof Gary Ford said: “We share a number of clinical priorities with J&J which we have already brought together effectively in individual projects – for example, joint work in early intervention in psychosis.
“By formalising this collaboration in a new – and, we believe, unique – strategic partnership we can take this further, benefiting patients and strengthening J&J’s presence in the Oxford AHSN region.
“We are excited about the opportunities presented by deepening and extending our joint activities with J&J, sharing our experience, expertise and influence. Our regular discussions at a senior level are helping us refine our work programmes and accelerate access to new innovations and technologies.
“This deepening partnership with J&J is an example of how stronger links between the NHS and industry can improve health and encourage economic growth.”
Mark Hicken, Managing Director of Janssen UK & Ireland, a pharmaceutical company of Johnson & Johnson, said: “As the largest healthcare company in the world, Johnson & Johnson is committed to helping people all over the world to live longer, happier, healthier lives.
“We are already working closely with the Oxford AHSN to find new ways to improve outcomes for patients. Through this unique new partnership, we are looking forward to exploring further opportunities to share knowledge and expertise, in order to help develop innovative local health services and advance the health of people across the region.”