Why geography should not decide care: the story behind NNHF’s founding

The Novo Nordisk Haemophilia Foundation was founded in Zurich, Switzerland, guided by a dedicated Council of experts. This diverse group brought together leaders in haemophilia care, patient advocacy, and global health to shape a clear vision and strategy for the Foundation’s mission.

Global Reach and local presence

NNHF works closely with partners in 87 countries, ensuring that programmes respond to local needs. Our priority regions include low-middle income countries including Africa, Asia, and Latin and South America. To strengthen these partnerships, the Foundation has expanded beyond Zurich with three satellite offices in Nairobi and Bangkok, bringing support closer to the communities we serve.

It started with a question: Why should a person’s birthplace decide the quality of their haemophilia care?  

In the early years of this millennium, that question sparked a bold idea. A small group of visionaries, led by Prof Ulla Hedner, turned concern into action and founded the Novo Nordisk Haemophilia Foundation (NNHF). That was more than 20 years ago, and the mission remains the same: make quality haemophilia care possible everywhere. 

Care shouldn’t be an accident of geography.

A practical, bold approach

From day one, NNHF chose a model that empowers rather than replaces. The Foundation funds country-led programmes that: 

• Train healthcare teams
• Strengthen haemophilia centres  
• Improve diagnostics and registries  
• Support patient groups in advocacy  

NNHF should not run clinics. Instead, it supports building skills, systems, and networks so local leaders can take charge.  

Early successes lit the way 

The first projects proved the concept: when healthcare professionals, nurses, physiotherapists, lab staff, and patient advocates learn and work together, they create networks that become local centres of care. Those centres train others, and the momentum spreads.  

A commitment that lasts 

Over the years, NNHF has supported hundreds of programmes in more than 87 countries. We recognized early on that sustainable care takes time and relies on lasting networks. 

From the start, we knew this wasn’t about one partner: it was about building a network. Co-creating with local teams and staying committed for the long term is the only way to make care sustainable.

Partnership is at the heart of everything we do. We co-create solutions, build trust, and establish networks that empower local teams. By committing for the long term, and working hand in hand with partners, NNHF transforms collaboration into sustainable care. 

Evolving for continued impact 

Today, the mission is unchanged: earlier diagnosis, care closer to home, and systemic change that lasts. NNHF keeps adapting: building new partnerships, using new technologies, and amplifying local voices.  

Stay tuned! As healthcare evolves, so do we and we are looking forward to sharing some updates with you soon.