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Sun Life U.S. Strengthens Commitment to Healthcare Access

In a significant move, Sun Life U.S. has reaffirmed its dedication to the healthcare industry by continuing its support for the Roux Institute’s Pre-Clinical Gap Year Program. This initiative, aimed at bridging the divide in healthcare access for underserved communities, is particularly notable as it honors the legacy of Dan Fishbein, M.D., who recently retired after an impactful eleven-year term at the company’s helm.

The Gap Year Program, which commenced in 2023, places recent college graduates in essential healthcare roles, addressing critical staffing shortages across various medical settings in Maine. With the continued backing from Sun Life, this program has already facilitated the placement of over 80 professionals into health service roles – a remarkable contribution to enhancing healthcare services in both rural and underserved areas of the state.

Dan Fishbein has been a steadfast proponent of this initiative, intertwining it with Sun Life’s broader strategy to improve healthcare access. David Healy, the current president of Sun Life U.S., expressed gratitude for Fishbein's leadership, highlighting how his vision has been instrumental in aligning Sun Life’s efforts with the broader healthcare ecosystem. "For the past decade, Dan deftly grew our strategy of connecting our benefits and health services to the broader healthcare ecosystem and exploring ways to improve access," Healy stated. This commitment is underscored by the fact that nearly all program participants reported a desire to continue their careers in healthcare, showcasing the program's success in inspiring the next generation of medical professionals.

One such participant, Jillian Fitzpatrick, shared her transformative experience in the Gap Year Program, detailing how her time at Knox Clinic and the supportive resources from the Roux Institute have bolstered her confidence as she advances in her education to become a dentist. This personal testimony exemplifies the program's impact on individual lives and the healthcare field at large.

Looking ahead, Aileen Huang-Saad, director at the Roux Institute, emphasized the ongoing need for healthcare providers, especially in parts of Maine where medical services are scarce. With hopes that more universities across the country will adopt similar programs, the Roux Institute aims to fill gaps in healthcare access that persist nationwide.

The Roux Institute, established in Portland, Maine, offers a range of graduate programs in technical fields, aligning academia with industry needs. Sun Life's partnership with the Roche Institute dates back to 2020, reflecting a long-standing collaboration focused on enhancing community health services through education and workforce development.

As an organization, Sun Life prioritizes community-centric initiatives. Its outreach extends beyond the Roux Institute, encompassing partnerships with local organizations like the Maine Celtics and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southern Maine. These endeavors underline the company’s commitment to fostering health and wellness across diverse communities.

In addition to its philanthropic efforts, Sun Life is a prominent player in the financial services sector, with a strong emphasis on health insurance and employee benefits. The company operates in multiple markets worldwide, reflecting its focus on delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of clients and communities. As of December 31, 2025, Sun Life reported total assets under management of C$1.60 trillion, further underpinning its financial stability and commitment to growth.

As healthcare continues to adapt and evolve, Sun Life U.S. remains at the forefront of these changes, dedicated to ensuring that quality care is accessible to all, particularly in areas where the need is greatest. The Gap Year Program and its continued support exemplify this commitment, and with the legacies left by leaders like Dan Fishbein, Sun Life is poised to continue making a significant impact in healthcare access for years to come.