Affordability is one of the critical dimensions for access to essential medicines, and lack of it can impede access to treatment in health facilities. The concept of affordability is associated with the issue of hardships and financial misbalance. The provision of affordable and appropriate medicines is a vital component of a well-functioning health system.
The role of medicines is to satisfy the priority healthcare needs of the population. They are selected with due regard to public health relevance, evidence on efficacy and safety, and comparative cost-effectiveness.
Comprehending this scenario, the medical community is thriving towards enabling cost-effective essential medicines together with Quality Health Care. Catering to this objective and focusing on customer satisfaction—Resmed Healthcare’s focus on alleviating human suffering by manufacturing affordable medicines of the highest quality—makes it stand in the spotlight as a leading company in the healthcare sector.
With the proficient knowledge and expertise of Laljith Sunker Singh, CEO, Resmed Healthcare provides a better quality of life and the highest quality of essential medicines at a price acceptable to all.
In an interview with Insights Care, Laljith Sunker Singh shares valuable facts about the significance of Resmed Healthcare, showcasing his professional tenure and his opinions on the future of the company.
Lalijith, enlighten our audience about Resmed Healthcare and what inspired you to venture into the healthcare industry.
Resmed Healthcare is located in Springfield Park, Durban. It is a family-owned company that was established in 1985. The inspiration behind starting the company was the lack of accessibility to affordable quality medication for the majority of the South African population.
It was an opportunity to fill a gap that existed in our country due to the racial inequalities that previously existed, especially regarding the lack of basic healthcare and infrastructure in rural communities.
Tell us more about the products and services that synthesize Resmed Healthcare to stand out from the competition.
We manufacture and supply capsules, liquids, powders, and tablets predominantly to the public sector of South Africa. Due to the fact that the majority of our population utilizes public health infrastructure, our goal was to render quality and accessible healthcare by continuously improving our distribution channels to reach those that required it the most, at a cost that facilitated inclusiveness of all those that were previously disadvantaged.
Tell us about your professional tenure in the healthcare industry and shed light on your contributions to Resmed Healthcare’s success in reaching greater heights.
After matriculation, I completed a BSc (Chemistry) in 1968 and proceeded to work for Williamson Drug Company as a Chemical Technician. In 1980, governmental regulations changed, and it was now possible for Non-Whites to study Pharmacy. I subsequently registered for the pharmacy program and continued working nights and weekends at Williamson Drug Company. I completed my Bachelor of Pharmacy in 1984 and opened Resmed Healthcare in 1985.
What is your opinion on the necessity for healthcare companies to align their offerings with the latest technological advances, especially when it comes to catering to the ever-evolving demands of the healthcare industry?
The healthcare industry is so dynamic and constantly evolving, especially because of changes in disease states, patterns and progression, aging populations, advances in technology, and the increase in availability and accessibility of information.
In a pharmaceutical company’s quest to improve the lives of their patients, it is pertinent that they can respond and adapt well to changes in the industry, which can be achieved by embracing and utilizing technological advances. Aligning and incorporating an effective change management system that includes advancements in technology will eventually become a priority for business sustainability.
Moreover, the pandemic has been met with a surge in work from home being the new norm, as well as an increase in telehealth doctor consultations, and it is likely that these trends will continue. Artificial Intelligence will most definitely be at the forefront of the pharmaceutical industry.
As an established leader, what would be your advice to the budding entrepreneurs and enthusiasts who aspire to venture into the healthcare sector?
My advice would be to serve an internship in an Industrial Environment, acquire sufficient industry experience and knowledge then try and overcome the barriers to market entry.
Purchase existing registrations or conduct their own research and development to find the products that they are passionate about manufacturing. The key is to remain consistent and resilient through the process.
How do you envision scaling Resmed Healthcare’s services in 2022 and beyond?
Our plan for growth and sustainability is the expansion of our Oral Solid Dosage Form Portfolio. Continual Research and Development of New product registrations and entry into the private sector of South Africa.
Please give us a few testimonials from your clients or customers and awards or recognition that accurately highlight your company’s position in the market.
Our most recent achievement was an award from the Global Awards 2020 ceremony (CEO Today). Other awards and recognition that we have received include the Golden Peacock Achiever Award for Entrepreneurship and Business Acumen, Social Commitment, and Humanitarian Efforts by the Indian Society of South Africa. Inclusion in the Worldwide WHO’s WHO Registry of Executives, Professionals, and Entrepreneurs.
We are highly focused on giving back to the community, and for this, we have received numerous awards and recognition, including the Rotary International Paul Harris Fellowship Award in appreciation for the tangible and significant assistance of fellow South Africans. A Merit Award from the Rotary Club of Reservoir Hills for dedicated service to the community, as well as the KFC Mahatma Health and Welfare Award in recognition of invaluable humanitarian services rendered in Phoenix.
