PhRMA taps AstraZeneca executive as chairman of the board

SAN ANTONIO The CEO of AstraZeneca has been elected chairman of the board of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America.

PhRMA elected David Brennan to the position at its annual meeting Friday.

In a speech to meeting attendees, Brennan said that all segments of the healthcare system need to collaborate on meaningful healthcare reform that includes increased access to health and prescription drug coverage for the uninsured and underinsured, greater emphasis on disease prevention to reduce the burden of chronic diseases on individuals and the healthcare system as a whole, reduced co-pays for prescription drugs and ample funding for the Food and Drug Administration.

“The pharmaceutical industry is uniquely poised to be both a source of innovative medicines and a trusted member of the healthcare community,” Brennan said. “Pharmaceutical researchers and manufacturers can play a critical role in advancing health solutions that build on the strengths of the U.S. healthcare system and address its weaknesses.”

Brennan will serve as board chairman for a year.