Effectively engage with patients to help improve adherence, drive better disease understanding, and deliver treatment value.
Empowering patients to advocate for their own healthcare and well-being is crucial for improving health outcomes and ensuring that individuals receive the care they need. As part of our 2025 Patient Engagement and Support strategy meeting, we hosted a panel discussion featuring representatives from the UK’s PPI healthcare system, European pharma preventative care, and primary care GPs. The session, facilitated by IQVIA business leaders and thought leadership experts, focused on the transformation of Patient Engagement and Support. The panelists highlighted the critical importance of how Pharma and healthcare service providers need to support patients in becoming effective advocates for their health. This blog post shares the strategies highlighted by the panelists to support patients to be their own advocate in the management of their healthcare and well-being.
Patients are often the project managers of their own health, making daily decisions that impact their well-being. Recognizing this role is the first step in empowering them to take charge of their healthcare journey.
Key Strategies for Empowering Patients
Provide comprehensive education about their condition, treatment options, and the healthcare system. This includes understanding the difference between obesity as a disease and a risk factor, and the importance of prevention.
Utilize technology to offer accessible information and resources, such as health apps and online platforms that patients can use to learn more about their health.
Tailor support programs to meet individual needs and preferences. This includes understanding the patient's daily challenges and providing solutions that fit their lifestyle.
Offer health coaching and mental health support to address the psychological aspects of managing chronic conditions.
Develop tools and resources that enable patients to monitor their health and make informed decisions. This includes wearables, digital health apps, and remote monitoring solutions.
Promote the use of self-assessment tools and digital markers to help patients track their progress and identify potential issues early.
Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, patient organizations, and the pharmaceutical industry to create a comprehensive support system for patients.
Encourage patients to engage with their healthcare team and participate in decision-making processes. This includes shared decision-making tools and platforms that facilitate communication between patients and providers.
During the panel discussion, several experts shared valuable insights on how to further support patients in their advocacy journey:
Empowering patients to be their own advocates requires a multifaceted approach that combines education, personalized support, self-management tools, and a strong support network. By implementing these strategies, we can help patients take control of their health and well-being, leading to better outcomes and a more patient-centered healthcare system.
Effectively engage with patients to help improve adherence, drive better disease understanding, and deliver treatment value.