In the Philippines, the foundation supports the establishment of a task-force to identify and advance new approaches that help maintain adequate leprosy services even in times of low endemicity. In collaboration with Novartis Philippines and the Department of Health, the foundation launched a contest in January 2013 inviting participants to share best practices and innovative ideas in fighting leprosy. Finally, the Novartis Comprehensive Leprosy Care Association (NCLCA) in India, supported by NFSD, helps former patients with deformities reintegrate into society through fostering disability care, including surgeries, grip aids and physiotherapy. About Novartis access-to-healthcare initiatives Novartis has a long-term commitment to enhancing access to healthcare in the developing world.