With a career grounded in public service and a commitment to improving healthcare access, Neely Frye has emerged as a leading expert in healthcare and pharmaceuticals. Frye currently serves as the director of government affairs at Braeburn Inc., where he focuses on improving access to medications, particularly for patients with opioid use disorder. His efforts to navigate the complex world of healthcare policy continue to have a lasting impact on how essential treatments are delivered.
A Career Built on Service and Advocacy
Frye credits his success to his deep belief in service and advocacy. “I’ve always been drawn to government because it can give people, who don’t have much of an opportunity, the chance to take control of their lives,” he explains. “There’s a public good that people can do here, working together.” Early in his career, Frye worked for the U.S. House of Representatives. There, he learned firsthand the power of public policy in shaping lives.
Frye’s transition into healthcare policy came naturally. He recognized how critical healthcare is to an individual’s well-being. “Healthcare is fundamental; when you’re not feeling well or don’t have access to treatment, it dominates everything else in your life,” Frye shares. His work at organizations like McKesson and Novartis has allowed him to expand his reach in healthcare advocacy, ultimately leading him to Braeburn.
Advocacy for Opioid Use Disorder Treatments
A significant focus of Frye’s current work is improving access to opioid use disorder treatments. He is passionate about removing barriers that prevent patients from obtaining necessary medications. “One of my goals is to ensure that patients have access to opioid use disorder medications, whether through the criminal justice system, Medicaid, or other public programs,” he explains. Frye actively advocates for legislation and policy reforms that broaden access, especially for underserved populations.
“The biggest challenge I see is ensuring people have the support system in place as they recover,” Frye adds. It’s not enough to just provide medication. He argues that patients need continuous care and support. He works to create a comprehensive approach to addiction recovery, one that supports patients throughout their recovery process.
Removing Stigma and Building Trust
Frye wants to change the way society views opioid use disorder. He insists it is a disease rather than a moral failure. “We must remove the stigma around opioid use disorder and treat people with dignity and respect,” he says. This shift in perception is essential to providing effective treatment.
Frye also emphasizes the importance of trust: “Being transparent about the work, being honest, and persevering has helped me build trust with the community and patients.” By focusing on patient-first advocacy and collaborating with healthcare providers, Frye works to bridge the gap between legislation and the needs of patients. He is determined to help people get the care they need to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Continuing to Help People Thrive
Frye remains committed to improving healthcare accessibility and addressing the unique challenges people face. He plans to continue building on his experience. “I want to be even more effective and efficient in addressing the needs of the people I serve,” he concludes.
With a background in healthcare policy and advocacy, Frye is dedicated to helping individuals access the care they deserve, regardless of their circumstances.
