Tensions Brew Between Pharma and Patient Advocacy Groups

Disruptive changes to the healthcare landscape are creating new tensions in the traditional relationship between pharmaceutical companies and patient advocacy groups, according to the findings of a report from InVentiv Health. The report, based on interviews with nearly four dozen representatives of patient advocacy organizations, finds patient advocates expect greater transparency from their pharmaceutical partners, want to play an increased role in clinical trial design and execution, and see a role for themselves in education campaigns for patients and providers. We spoke to Heather Gartman, regional managing director of InVentiv Health, about the report, the changing dynamics between pharmaceutical companies and patient advocacy organizations, and whether the long-term health of the symbiotic relationship is in jeopardy.