Industry Publishes a Guide for Companies Working with Patients

The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) has published a guide for pharmaceutical companies on how to work successfully, collaboratively, and ethically with patients and patient groups, in line with the ABPI Code of Practice.

“Working with patients and patient organizations-a sourcebook for industry” has also been published in response to patient organizations looking for greater clarity on relationships with pharma companies. Additionally, it endorses the viewpoint of ABPI that through collaboration with patients and patient organizations it is possible to gain significant public health benefits.

“The industry is here to develop medicines that address unmet medical needs, and it is clear that to understand that need, you must learn from the people living with the condition,” said Jill Pearcy, director of ABPI Code Engagement, who authored the report. “We have worked with patient organizations to produce a sourcebook which includes practical guidance, tips, and tools to support pharmaceutical companies [in collaborating] with patients and patient organizations. It might sound obvious, but if you are not working with patient interest at the heart of what you do you can’t be truly patient-centric. As an industry, we are committed to this.”

Covering six topics that were highlighted as key areas where further guidance would be useful, the sourcebook includes information on principles and agreements, definitions of patient organizations, patients or patient advocates, events and meetings, R&D, payments, and product launches. 

Source: ABPI