Why do companies provide patient support programmes? What is the ultimate objective?
We all know that by educating and offering your patients information and support at different time points in their journey, you are more likely to ensure each patient takes their medication correctly and remains on therapy.
Patient support programmes are not “off the shelf” products - there is no one size fits all. Each programme has to be uniquely tailored to match each patient’s requirements.
So what makes a good patient support programme?
Here are a few key points:
1. When designing a programme it is important not to assume what your patient’s needs are. Before planning a programme, you should always speak with your patients - find out what they want and need.
By running a few focus groups, you will save a lot of time and money, and end up with a programme that will be used.
2. Tailor the programme to each patient's individual journey. You can do this by offering different communication channels that patients can choose to access when needed. For instance, setting up a nurse call support service and/or medication reminder service.
3. Always review what support and information is available in the wider community. There is often an opportunity to join forces with local organisations to offer your patients greater information and support - and enhance your programme’s credibility.
4. Don’t be adverse to using different communication channels. With technology today, patient support programme’s are becoming a lot more cost effective and targeted. By taking elements online, patients are able to access information wherever they are, and you are able to receive instant feedback on what elements of the programme are working. With online surveys, Google analytics and individual reporting, we can find out where improvements need to be made and implement changes almost instantly.
So think about these points when wanting to make your programme really effective.
ZEST Healthcare Communications specialises in the creation of medical education programs and materials designed to inform and educate healthcare professionals and consumers. Our materials run across all media, including the latest in online technologies. The strategic intent of these programs and materials is to positively transform the way people think about a disease area or brand.