For individuals and families affected by schizophrenia, navigating the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care can be overwhelming. The barriers to effective care are multifaceted, involving diagnostic challenges, ineffective treatments, limited access to specialized resources, and fragmented community-based support systems. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative approach among multiple stakeholders—researchers, health care providers, philanthropists, and individuals with schizophrenia—to create more holistic and effective solutions. The impact of such efforts can be transformative, improving both the quality of care and the lives of those living with schizophrenia and their families.

In 2024, the Milken Institute's Science Philanthropy Accelerator for Research and Collaboration (SPARC) partnered with several philanthropic families to identify solutions to advance care for schizophrenia. SPARC will assess the current state of schizophrenia care, identify key stakeholders, and map the challenges faced by individuals with schizophrenia and their families. SPARC’s expertise in medical research philanthropy will guide the identification of areas where strategic investments could have the greatest impact. Through this collaboration, the Milken Institute will not only shed light on shortcomings in care but also provide a clear roadmap for high-impact philanthropy, contributing to more efficient resource allocation and innovative approaches to care that have the potential to make significant improvements in the lives of those affected by schizophrenia.