Pediatric Health: The Best Investment We Can Make

Although investments made early in life yield powerful and enduring returns, children account for only a small share of total US health spending. Strong childhood and adolescent health drives higher educational attainment, greater lifetime productivity, and more resilient communities. Despite these long-term benefits, pediatric health efforts face significant financial, structural, and incentive barriers across prevention, early diagnosis, and mental and community-based care. This session will explore how innovation across the youth health ecosystem can improve outcomes for the next generation and prioritize children’s health as both a moral imperative and a strategic investment in our collective future.