Rachel Smith

Rachel Smith is a prominent figure in the field of mental health and rare diseases, currently serving as the Co-Lead of the Global Genes Mental Health Working Group at Global Genes. In this role, she collaborates with other leaders to address the intersection of mental health and rare disease, focusing on advocacy and support for patients facing these challenges.3

Background and Experience

Rachel has a rich professional background, particularly in patient advocacy and clinical research related to rare diseases. She is also the Global Head of the Rare Disease Center of Excellence at Parexel, where she emphasizes a patient-first approach to clinical trials and treatment development. Her work involves collaborating with various organizations to improve outcomes for patients with ultra-rare diseases, often those who lack viable treatment options.12

Advocacy and Initiatives

In her capacity at Global Genes, Rachel is dedicated to enhancing awareness and understanding of mental health issues within the rare disease community. This involves not only addressing the unique needs of these patients but also working towards legislative changes that benefit them.12 Her personal experience with a rare disease diagnosis has further fueled her commitment to this cause, providing her with firsthand insight into the complexities faced by patients.2

Conclusion

Rachel Smith's dual roles at Global Genes and Parexel position her as a key advocate for integrating mental health considerations into the broader context of rare disease management. Her efforts aim to create a supportive environment for patients navigating both mental health challenges and rare conditions.