Blog
Supporting Patients to Be Their Own Advocate in Healthcare and Well-being
Shayma Ali, VP & General Manager, Commercial Engagement Services, IQVIA
Dairin Pernet, Global Strategy and GTM Lead for Commercial Engagement Services, IQVIA
Jun 16, 2025
Introduction

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.


Understanding the Patient's Role

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

  1. Education and Awareness

    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.

  2. Personalized Support

    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.

  3. Encouraging Self-Management

    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.

  4. Building a Supportive Network

    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.

 

Additional Insights from the Panel Discussion

During the panel discussion, several experts shared valuable insights on how to further support patients in their advocacy journey:

  • The Role of Healthcare Providers: Healthcare providers play a crucial role in empowering patients. By actively listening to patients' concerns, providing clear and concise information, and involving patients in treatment decisions, providers can help patients feel more confident in managing their health.
  • The Importance of Mental Health: Mental health is a significant aspect of overall well-being. Addressing mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression, can greatly impact a patient's ability to advocate for themselves. Integrating mental health support into healthcare plans is essential for comprehensive patient care.
  • Community Engagement: Building a strong community network can provide patients with additional support and resources. Encouraging patients to join support groups, participate in community health programs, and connect with others who share similar experiences can enhance their advocacy efforts.

Conclusion

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.

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