Category: Blogs

6th February, 2025

Coping with chronic diseases and compliance to treatment has been crucial for managing chronic illnesses and achieving better health outcomes, yet it continues to remain a significant challenge. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), less than 50 percent of patients adhere to their medication regimens as prescribed. This has resulted in substantial clinical and economic burdens, including increased hospital admissions, higher morbidity and mortality rates, escalated healthcare costs, and reducing patient health outcome and quality of life. 

A science-based, personalized, customized methodology builds need-based adherence interventions, as reminders alone are insufficient for ensuring long-term adherence. By studying real-world insights and data early on, Axios’ experts design and implement successful interventions that are tailored to individual needs with elements of personalization and customization. These interventions typically integrate reminders within a broader ecosystem of support, including but not limited to educational, motivational, and behavioral strategies in patient support programs.  

Studies have shown that multifaceted interventions, which address various dimensions of adherence, are more effective than single component interventions. A key to the success of these interventions is building a caring relationship and understanding the patient’s situation and needs through validated methodology – a unique approach adopted by Axios International. Axios’ experts and patient care team provide care based on personalized adherence support plan, often empowering individuals to take responsibility in managing their condition and adopting positive behavior toward their health.  

Adherence is influenced by multiple dimensions, key among which are those related to specialized healthcare professional and system that seamlessly connects this care to patients no matter where they are, access to the full course of treatment, socioeconomic, and other condition factors surrounding the patient.   

“These diverse elements require comprehensive and science-based strategies and methodology to design adherence interventions that are tailored and need-based,” says Dr. Anas Nofal, Chief Business Officer at Axios International. “It isn’t enough to simply know what is required for proper adherence; one must also thoroughly understand and address all major factors that directly impact the decisions for long-term adherence. Hence, a 360-degree approach to patient care is important,” he adds. 

After diagnosis, patients often lapse in adhering to treatment regimens. By providing access to maximized adherence solutions through the Patient Support Programs (PSPs) we manage, Axios always aims to create an integrated ecosystem of care and treatment by looking at the patient journey holistically. Patients receive 360-degree support from the Axios Program team, who engage and enable them through interventions like education, awareness, and the enablement of coping mechanisms for their condition with shared decision making. Axios’ agile and multi-disciplinary experts ensure the much-need care is delivered through these personalized interventions.

Once patients are referred to a patient support program managed by Axios, the patient care team at the CareLine hub ensures that patients’ needs are met individually. Using Axios’ validated and proprietary tool, the Patient Needs Assessment Tool (PNAT), the specialized patient care team then customizes a tailored service solution for patients and develops a personalized adherence support plan.  

The success of Axios’ adherence interventions is measured and reflected through an increase in treatment compliance rate, decrease in patient dropout rates, and increased stay on treatment which ultimately improves health outcomes.  

30th January, 2025

Access to healthcare is not just a need—it’s a matter of survival. Yet, in many parts of the world, millions of people are unable to access their treatment due to affordability challenges. From Latin America to Asia to the Middle East and Eastern European regions to Sub-Saharan Africa, treatment affordability is shaped by a complex web of factors, including economic disparities, healthcare systems, governance structures, and geographic barriers.  

To make some innovative and high-cost treatment more accessible for patients, Axios International takes a systemic and novel approach – from strategy to implementation – to design impact-driven creative access strategies that outline market access decisions.   

But what are the primary barriers that prevent people from accessing treatment globally? 

“The first point is the cost of treatment. There will always be a level of new innovative treatment that, regardless of the affordability of the person, will be challenging to complete the full cost,” says Omer Karfis, Global Head Access Solutions at Axios International. 

“Secondly, when you look at the average income or GDP of almost 70 percent countries in the world, you will find that people cannot afford medication especially for chronic diseases. Lastly, not all countries have a health coverage that can bear the costs for high-cost treatment,” he adds. 

In many parts of the world, including dynamic economies, the challenge of treatment affordability is compounded by vast geographic distances, infrastructure, shortage of healthcare funding, and the evolving cost of new and innovative treatment which reflects in the high cost of that treatments ultimately leading to disparity in access to care.  

Using the Affordability and Economic models, Axios evaluates the development and implementation of a sustainable access strategy based on the country needs, country landscape, and other factors that contribute in choosing the most suitable model to be implemented. 

The Affordability Model is used to measure the patient’s ability to share part of the cost for their treatment plan. ​The model is real demonstration for a contribution of different stakeholders with one goal which is supporting patient, in that each stakeholder participate based on their ability even patient who share part of their treatment cost based on their affordability.  

Axios has addressed the problem by designing innovative cost-sharing affordability models based on geographic and economic indicators. “Implementation of affordability models in high-income countries is not suitable for a low-income population. For instance, in some countries where the average affordability is around $500 per year, the models must be designed to accommodate such financial constraints. This requires a strong collaboration among multiple stakeholders, including charities to ensure that the support system remains sustainable and effective,” he explains. 

“Everyone talks about equality, but we talk about affordability and equity. We usually say one size doesn’t fit all but with an experience of 27 years designing such solutions, you will find that the most successful model was the cost sharing model based on affordability solution,” says Omer. 

Meticulous process of designing an access model 

The practical application of these models involves a meticulous process of design, evaluation, and continuous improvement. It begins with a thorough study to ensure the model aligns with the specific needs of a region to be sustainable. Once implemented, the model is continuously monitored and updated to reflect changes in economic conditions, healthcare systems, and patient needs. Feedback from patients, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders is vital in this process, allowing for necessary adjustments to maintain the model’s relevance and effectiveness.  

The core of these affordability models lies in patient-centric design and execution, ensuring that the system is not only sustainable but also compassionate and responsive to the needs of all stakeholders involved in a compliant manner. 

“When Axios introduced the novel concept of making treatment more financially accessible by having patients pay what they can afford while pharmaceutical companies and other stakeholders cover the rest, it marked a significant shift in access to healthcare. The approach centered on collaborating with pharmaceutical companies to ensure their medicines reached patients regardless of affordability issues,” adds Omer. 

As healthcare budgets become tighter globally, many countries are increasingly relying on innovative financial models and tailored cost-sharing initiatives to ensure that patients can access the treatments they need.

Studying a diverse approach 

The global challenges of treatment affordability are vast and multifaceted, but not insurmountable. By studying the diverse approaches taken by countries around the world through Real World Insights (RWI), we can learn valuable lessons about what works—and what doesn’t. Axios utilizes RWI through its programs when they are implemented which helps improve and optimize the programs to better address the evolving patient needs. 

“The traditional access models e.g. buy X get Y free are not effective as they leave a lot of patients behind and may be perceived as a marketing tool rather than access strategies by key stakeholders,” says Valeriia Mykolaienko, Senior Consultant at Axios International.  

She adds: “We create solutions that work and fully address the local context and business priorities, ensuring patient needs are met.”   

Views by:

Axios CEO Joseph Saba will join healthcare business leaders from around the world next week in Shanghai, China, to discuss the “Challenges and Opportunities of Global Market Access for Pharmaceuticals,” including emerging and developed markets.  

Location: To join the discussion, email axios@axiosint.com to request your invitation and join via Weblink.

What will be discussed?  
Organized by the China Europe International Business School (CEIBS), Dr. Saba will share his insights from 30+ years of experience designing and implementing access programs in low- and middle-income countries during a panel on access challenges in emerging markets. Panelists will explore innovative access to treatment models – including patient assistance programs and differential pricing – as well as China’s access experience, learnings and opportunities to date.  

Panelists include:  

• Paola Barbarino, CEO, Alzheimer Disease International, London, UK 

• Prof. Ding Jinxi, Executive Deputy Dean of Graduate School of Chinese Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China 

• Jon Fairest, Head of Global Health Unit, Sanofi, Paris, France 

• Dr. Joseph Saba, CEO, Axios International, Paris, France 

• Dr. Wu Xiaobin, President and COO, BeiGene, Shanghai, China 

• Moderator: Eric Bouteiller, Adjunct Professor, China Europe International Business School, Shanghai, China 

In addition, a separate panel will be held to discuss how to access the latest innovations in developed markets, including access challenges in precision medicine, diagnostic and digital tools to improve outcomes and the role of patient organizations 

Panelists include:  

• Christoph Glaetzer, Chief Global Value and Access Officer, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, New Brunswick, NJ, USA 

• Francois Houÿez, Information & Access to Therapies Director & Health Policy Advisor, EURORDIS, Brussels Belgium 

• Professor Hiroshi Nakamura, Dean, Keio Business School, Tokyo, Japan 

• Moderator: Annie Chicoye, Senior Lecturer, Sciences Po Paris, France

Why this matters: 
Pharmaceutical innovation is accelerating, but effective access to these innovations is not following the same pace. While issues in emerging markets and more developed countries may differ, both face significant treatment challenges. Shanghai, the world’s second-largest pharmaceutical market, is an ideal place to discuss these issues, thanks to China’s rapid progress in pharmaceutical innovation and economic development.  

CEIBS is a business school co-founded in 1994 by the Chinese government and European Union, with campuses in China, Europe and Africa; its Global EMBA program was recently ranked #1 in the Financial Times’ 2024 EMBA rankings. 

24^th October 2024

Healthcare services are rapidly evolving and moving to digital formats when it comes to services outside the physical environment. A popular part of this growth is the rise of mobile health (mHealth) apps which play a key role in healthcare automation. However, as the world digitalizes, a pertinent question arises: do patients truly want these apps to track their healthcare?  

Recent trends suggest that the answer is a resounding yes, especially when these apps are designed to meet specific patient needs and concerns. Mobile health applications, electronic health records, telehealth, telemedicine, and wearable devices enable patients to monitor their health, allowing physicians to detect potential health issues early, and develop personalized treatment plans based on the patients’ own data and health history.  

Jean-Noel Saba, Digital Health Manager for Axios+ at Axios International says that digital health tools have truly transformed the way we manage our health. “By tracking our health data, we can become more proactive about our well-being, making informed decisions that can lead to better health outcomes. It’s not just about improving efficiency or cutting costs; it’s about giving patients the power to take charge of their health journey. This patient centered approach – upon which Axios+ is built – is key to making a difference in our patients’ day-to-day lives and long-term health,” he says.

Increased usage and interest 

Concurrently, the use of mHealth apps to access medical records and manage health is rising. In the US alone, the HealthIT.gov reports an increase in app usage to access medical records, with 51 percent of individuals doing so in 2022, up from 38 percent in 2020. The growing reliance on digital tools for health management is clear in daily life, with patients finding these apps convenient for frequent access to their health information. 

While the interest in health apps is high, patients are increasingly particular about the apps they use and how those apps, in turn, use their data. Nishapa Leeleartkij from Thailand is an ulcerative colitis patient who is enrolled in the Axios International’s Patient Support Programs (PSPs). Since her diagnosis a few years ago, the 45-year-old has been using digital apps to monitor her condition, “I use different apps for different purposes. Some help me to understand the patterns of my medical condition, so I can better manage my lifestyle and treatments to prevent or minimize flare-ups. So many apps are available for patients to choose from, so the key is to find the best one that suits your needs.” 

Patients worry about data breaches 

Concern is paramount for patients when it comes to digital healthcare tracking, data privacy, and security. Despite healthcare institutions and data owners implementing stringent security measures when storing and managing data, patients worry about data breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive health information, thus preventing some from embracing digital health trackers. 

Additionally, patients can easily experience information overload with social media and internet search engines providing health information on demand. So, it is crucial for physicians and other healthcare providers to not only present data in a format that patients can easily understand but also anticipate questions about their condition and debunk untruths patients may encounter online. Those who are less comfortable with technology might find digital health tracking intimidating or cumbersome to navigate without training or support from health tech providers.  

Nishapa shares, “I have struggled with some of the more complicated app usage and data upload instructions in the past, which has prevented me from utilizing digital health tracking apps more effectively. I tend to shy away from those that do not have adequate, clear instructions on how to upload my health data.” With apps and ease of access to digital services now second nature, a significant majority of patients strongly desire to manage their health digitally. According to PYMNTS.com, a digital data platform, 76 percent of patients show interest in using digital methods, including apps, to track their health. This interest is particularly pronounced in younger generations, given their propensity to receive healthcare insight and education from social media applications on the go and who are even willing to switch healthcare providers for better digital health management options. The convenience of digital interactions for appointment reminders, test results, and communication with providers is highly sought after, reflecting a shift towards a more tech-savvy patient demographic. 

In Mexico, patients’ perspectives on using mobile apps for health care monitoring are mixed. A study conducted in 2023 by the specialized portal Doctoralia revealed that 65 percent of respondents use some type of mobile technology to manage aspects of their health, such as medication reminders or virtual consultations. However, only 42 percent of them were completely satisfied with current applications due to concerns about data privacy and the accuracy of the information provided. 

Graciela M., a patient with type 2 diabetes from Mexico City, says: “The apps help me to monitor my glucose levels, but I am always afraid that my data could be used without my consent, and I feel that the data about my disease is only of interest to me, my family and my doctor.” This feeling is common among users, who fear that their personal data could be shared with third parties without their knowledge. On the other hand, other patients value the convenience and access to these apps’ real-time information, allowing them to better manage their health. 

Consumers driving future of healthcare 

Dr. Karen DeSalvo, Chief Health Officer at Google Health, emphasizes that “the future of health is consumer driven. People will expect a mobile-first experience with more personalized insights, services, and care.” However, the success of these apps hinges on their ability to align with consumer expectations and provide a seamless user experience. Jean-Noel adds, “While the benefits of digital health tracking are clear, there’s still room for improvement. Health tech providers need to focus on making their solutions user-friendly, offer solid tech support, and prioritize stronger data security and privacy. By addressing these areas, we can help more patients feel comfortable and confident in embracing digital health solutions as a whole.” 

The potential benefits of these tools are immense, empowering patients to take charge of their health. However, for digital health tracking to be widely embraced, healthcare providers and tech companies must address issues like data security and ease of use. By doing so, they can create a future where digital health tools are not only.

To get in touch with our program teams, visit axiosint.com/contact-us

2nd August 2024

Flexibility is crucial in today’s market. Over the past 25 years, we have adjusted our resources based on current needs and embraced different work models to connect with our global teams 

In today’s fast-changing business landscape, cost efficiency and adaptability are more than just buzzwords; they are essential for staying competitive. In my 15 years with Axios International, I have seen first-hand how a commitment to cost-effective strategies has put us at the forefront of the healthcare industry. 

So, here is how we do it. 

At Axios, we believe in doing more with less. Streamlining processes, optimizing resource allocation, and maintaining a lean structure are key to our operational efficiency. We focus on being financially conscious while investing in improving our operations, learning, and development. This approach has been crucial in ensuring that Axios delivers high-quality services without unnecessary overheads. 

Outsourcing and on-demand resources 

Flexibility is critical in today’s market. Over the past 25 years, we have adjusted our resources based on current needs and embraced different work models, including remote work, to connect with our global teams. By outsourcing non-core functions and using on-demand resources, including IT support, we keep costs down without sacrificing quality. This strategy allows us to remain agile and responsive to changing demands. 

Being cost-efficient also means keeping a close eye on expenses and maintaining transparency. Axios has clear checks and balances in place, especially regarding quality and compliance, and good governance. Everyone, from a new joiner to the leadership team across the functions, has defined roles and responsibilities to ensure alignment with Axios’ goals.  

We also have tight budgeting processes, with annual resource planning and metrics that keep us on track. This mindful use of resources enhances profitability and supports morale. The resulting cost savings enable us to invest in incentive schemes and training programs for employees, promoting a culture of continuous learning and improvement. 

A tech-driven culture that complements the human touch in workplace relationships is essential for any company’s growth. Embracing automation and systems in our core business support services and operations has streamlined administrative tasks, reduced errors, and improved overall efficiency.  

Our digital ecosystem, Axios+, allows us to deliver 360-degree patient care efficiently while effectively connecting with our stakeholders, clients, and partners. These technology-driven measures ensure effective cost control while improving patient and stakeholder satisfaction while ensuring optimal health outcomes. By integrating advanced technologies, Axios is now able to focus more on core activities that drive growth and innovation.  

Integrating technology also enables us to serve patients, clients, and partners more effectively. Since our digital health ecosystem, Axios+ has been optimized, it has enhanced the experience for patients enrolled in our programs. It has also streamlined the effective delivery of Axios-managed Patient Access Programs. This tech-driven culture ensures that Axios stays ahead of the curve and continuously improves our services. 

In the healthcare industry, lean and agile operations are critical. That’s why Axios prioritizes Identifying, onboarding, and empowering a pool of access experts and healthcare specialists to maintain high standards while controlling costs. Our recruitment process is managed internally through a standardized selection process. Axios employees follow a customized learning path with Axios-centric modules based on a 90-day onboarding plan, ensuring continuous learning and assessment.  

Our cost-efficient practices are also reflected in our patient-centric work. Serving patients, healthcare professionals, clients, and partners in over 28+ countries, Axios understands the importance of localized expertise. All staff on the ground are crucial, and we ensure that we hire professionals with local experience and specialized backgrounds in all project locations. This approach helps us understand and meet the unique needs of patients in different regions. 

The way forward 

Reflecting on the past 25 years, Axios has grown steadily because we care for our patients and how we serve them. By taking the 360-degree approach to patient support, maintaining a lean operation, expanding meaningful client engagement, and optimizing resource allocation, which secures revenue growth year on year, our processes and systems are set up to empower people within Axios. 

As we look to the future, Axios is well prepared to embrace emerging trends and technologies such as automation and data analytics. These advancements will shape sustainable best practices and strategies. Moving towards digitization will further enhance our ability to stay ahead and better serve our patients, healthcare professionals, clients, and partners. 

Driving financial efficiency isn’t just about cutting costs; it’s about making smart, strategic decisions that enhance productivity, boost morale, and ensure sustainable growth. These strategies are integral to Axios’ success and future readiness.

7^th August 2024

Healthcare in Mexico is an evolving topic of discussion, especially considering the challenges and opportunities patients face regarding access to health services. Mexico’s fragmented health system complicates the patient’s journey, especially in the case of chronic conditions, such as oncology.

In recent years, the reorganization of the Mexican health system, with the change of the Seguro Popular in January 2020 to the Institute of Health for Welfare (Insabi) and its subsequent replacement by the IMSS Bienestar in 2023, has introduced both significant opportunities and challenges, as this system serves more than 60 million people. It seeks to provide universal access to health services, especially for those not covered by Social Security.

However, the transition has been complicated, as highlighted by Laura Suchil, clinical researcher and former Director General of Research at Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCAN): “The lack of clarity and communication about the transition process has created confusion among patients. In addition, maintaining the drug supply chain and retaining healthcare professionals are ongoing challenges.”

Laura, who has extensive experience in supporting patient programs and is a member of the Asociación Mexicana para el Estudio de la Hematología, said, “It is essential to work with civil society organizations (CSOs) to compensate for resource constraints in public institutions.” She also said that CSOs not only provide additional support to patients but also help cover critical aspects such as housing, transportation, and adequate information. “This collaborative approach has become essential, allowing the creation of targeted patient support programs that strengthen the health system’s responsiveness and improve the patient experience,” she added while speaking at a webinar organized by Axios International on ‘There is no health without access: Navigating a patient’s journey in Mexico.’

Civil society perspective

Organizations must adapt to the diverse circumstances of the patient’s journey, from lack of care to specialist shortages, and work together to provide comprehensive support.

“It is crucial for organizations to collect and systemize information to facilitate the decision-making process. The fragmentation of the health system and information complicates the picture, but through networks and alliances, we can offer better support to patients,” said Leticia Aguiar, General Manager of ConAcción Salud and an expert consultant in civil society organizations.

It is also very important to prepare patients to participate in healthcare reform. The new architecture for social engagement in healthcare offers spaces for patients to contribute their expertise and knowledge, which can lead to a more patient-centered system. Education and empowerment in this context benefit the individual, strengthen the patient community, and improve the overall healthcare system.

A comprehensive and collaborative approach

The patient journey in Mexico is marked by several challenges, from economic conditions to lack of access to information and appropriate treatment. However, it is possible to improve access to quality healthcare through innovative and collaborative approaches, such as those designed and managed by Axios International in partnership with the program sponsors and supported by various CSOs.

A patient-centered approach, such as that taken by Axios International, an access to healthcare company with over two decades of experience designing and implementing access solutions, prioritizing their unique needs and experiences, is essential to move towards a more inclusive and efficient healthcare system in Mexico.

Valeriia Mykolaienko, Regional Operations Lead at Axios International, speaking at the webinar, said: “One of the key opportunities is to continue to put the patient at the center, addressing accessibility challenges in a sustainable way by working together as partners with various stakeholders in the market. However, one of the biggest opportunities we see is having a more holistic approach to supporting patients because most of the patient journey happens outside the hospital setting.” It should be emphasized that one of the main challenges of the health system in Mexico is access to quality healthcare and affordability of innovative medicines. Collaboration with multiple stakeholders is crucial to addressing these issues in a sustainable way. In addition, a holistic approach that considers patient support outside of the hospital setting is needed, which is essential to ease the burden on the health system and improve treatment outcomes.

Patient empowerment and continuing education

Another crucial aspect is patient empowerment. Patient education about their disease, treatment management, and support from family members and caregivers is critical to improving health outcomes.

Implementing digital solutions in health is urgent, especially for remote communities. Such digital tools enable efficient healthcare delivery and more robust data collection, essential for planning and developing effective health policies and access to healthcare strategies.

Digital apps such as Axios+  provide intuitive tools to enhance patients’ experiences and medical outcomes while facilitating the delivery of Axios-managed Patient Access Programs (PAPs and PSPs).

Effectively navigating the patient journey in Mexico, from the fragmentation of the health system to the accessibility of innovative treatments, is more critical than ever before. This is why scaling and seizing opportunities for improvement through collaboration with like-minded partners is significant. Collaboration between institutions, CSOs, and other stakeholders, along with holistic patient empowerment, education, and implementation of digital technologies, can transform the Mexican healthcare system to benefit more patients.

It is possible to build a more resilient and patient-centered healthcare system that improves health outcomes and promotes patients’ holistic well-being anywhere in the world. The patient journey in Mexico can be arduous, but with collaborative efforts, a more holistic approach, and a shared vision to make access a reality for more people, the path to equitable and efficient health care is achievable.

16^th July 2024

Healthcare professionals cannot alone achieve the shift to patient-centered medicine

More and more patients are increasingly spending more time of their journey outside the hospital.​ However, there is a lack of adequate patient support and services that offer them assistance where and when they need it most.

Shifting to a patient-centered healthcare model means a necessary and urgent change in the healthcare system. As we know, the hospital model has remained practically unchanged for the last 100 years. This underscores a troubling reality. Despite technological and scientific advances, hospitals’ structure and approach remain anchored in an outdated paradigm that prioritizes disease over the well-being of the whole patient. 

Historically, hospitals have focused on treating specific diseases with a fragmented, intervention-oriented approach rather than prevention. This model has effectively addressed medical emergencies and acute conditions, but in a world where chronic diseases are on the rise and personalized care is becoming more relevant, this approach falls frankly short.

“This is happening worldwide,” said Dr. Armando Garduño, Palliative Care and Quality of Life Support Area Head from the Instituto Nacional de Pediatría (INP) in Mexico City. “Healthcare is very mechanized; it focuses on the disease of the patient. There is still a lot of progress to be made all over the world.”

The traditional hospital model is often rigid and lacks adaptability. Standardized rooms, strict and inviolable schedules, and an inscrutable medical hierarchy often exclude patients from important decisions. Although these aspects have worked in the past, they are inadequate to meet today’s public health challenges. 

“The health system must be strengthened, with more support for primary care, more prevention, and more resources to treat chronic diseases such as cancer; nothing should be missing. Patient and family-centered care is a strategy to ensure that care is comprehensive and that the patient is seen as a person, subject to rights, as a human being, not just as a disease, and naturally in the family, especially in pediatrics,” said Dr. Armando. 

Need for change: Patient-centered medicine

The aging population and increased incidence and prevalence of chronic and non-communicable diseases have increased the need for lifelong and/or costly specialty medications, leading to a greater need for specialized healthcare with personalized access to care and treatment, as a significant portion of the patient journey happens outside the hospitals.

For the past 25 years, Axios International has been working to build a sustainable access ecosystem to fill these gaps in the space outside the hospital and improve patient health and medical outcomes. Using sustainable access solutions carefully curated around patient journeys, the Axios team leverages a broad, trusted network of stakeholder relationships.

Valeriia Mykolaienko, Regional Operations Lead at Axios International, said: “At Axios, we put the patient at the center of everything we do, and that is why our access solutions go beyond the hospitals to reach patients where they are. We work with local stakeholders in the market and bring global expertise to ensure that patients get the right medication at the right time without having to make huge sacrifices to pay for this type of treatment that their treating clinic has prescribed. Our focus is on end-to-end access to treatment. Otherwise, the patient will not be able to get the full medical benefit from their treatment.”

“This approach improves the quality of care, increases patient satisfaction, and improves long-term health outcomes. Patient-centered medicine promotes collaboration between patients and healthcare professionals, ensuring that medical decisions are informed and shared.

And we do this by creating personalized treatment plans that consider everyone’s unique needs, preferences, and circumstances. This comprehensive approach considers the patient’s medical condition in social, emotional, and economic contexts. In this way, it seeks to offer more holistic and effective care”, she said. According to a study published in the Journal of Participatory Medicine, patients actively involved in their health care have better health outcomes and, therefore, greater satisfaction during their day. Axios provides 360-degree patient support in all partnered access programs we set up and manage, from access to diagnosis to treatment and maximized adherence solutions.

This holistic approach improves the quality of care, increases patient satisfaction, and improves long-term health outcomes. Most importantly, patient-centered medicine is achieved through successful collaboration between patients and healthcare professionals, ensuring that medical decisions are informed and shared.

Investments needed for transformation

Investing in technologies facilitating communication and information access is crucial to achieving this transformation. Digital platforms that allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their doctors, and manage their appointments contribute to greater patient empowerment.

It is also essential to train health professionals in interpersonal skills and empathy, which are often the “Achilles heel” of many doctors. However, healthcare providers must be knowledgeable in technical skills and the ability to listen to and understand patients’ concerns and wishes. Empathy and effective communication are key components to establishing a trusting and collaborative relationship with the patient. Keeping these factors in mind, Axios has developed Axios+, which provides integrated patient support with an all-in-one digital health solution. Axios+ is designed to enable and complement such physician-patient, patient-caregiver, and patient-pharmacist relationships. It is the first and only full suite of digital solutions designed to improve patient access and adherence to treatment.

Technologies like Axios+ are enablers. Public policies should support this transition by financing health technologies, promoting continuing education for health professionals, and implementing standards encouraging patient-centered care.

Towards a future of holistic care

The transition to patient-centered medicine is more than a trend; it is imperative for adapting the health system to the demands of the 21st century.

The care of the future must be comprehensive, considering all aspects of the patient’s life and not just their illness. Such change requires a concerted effort and a long-term vision.

Therefore, it is important to recognize and emphasize that patient well-being does not depend only on medical treatments but on holistic care that includes prevention, education, and emotional support. Patient-centered medicine is an imperative in healthcare and a move towards a more equitable and compassionate society where everyone receives the care they need and deserve.

Modern medicine must evolve towards a model that puts the patient at the center of all decisions and processes and facilitates the management of patients with chronic diseases outside the hospitals to relieve the burden on patients and their families, providers, and payers. All stakeholders in the health system should work together to bring about this change. The healthcare system can move toward a healthier, more humane future for all with a renewed, patient-centered approach.

29^th May 2024

Healthcare organizations often face the dual challenge of safeguarding patient data while embracing innovations promising to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in healthcare delivery.

Axios International specializes in the design and implementation of sustainable access to healthcare solutions, with a particular focus in emerging markets and low- and middle-income countries. Our expertise in understanding the entire spectrum of the patient journey requires us to identify and mitigate a wide range of compliance issues.

For that reason, staying on top of new regulations and trends affecting the compliance space is a cornerstone of our business model and how we serve patients. Here, we explore the key trends shaping the compliance landscape and best practices for maintaining compliance in this rapidly evolving sector.

Technological Innovations and Compliance

AI and Compliance

No conversation about healthcare technology is complete today without mentioning the impact of artificial intelligence (AI). Morgan Stanley recently reported that the amount allocated to AI and machine learning (ML) by healthcare entities is anticipated to be 10.5 percent this year, more than double that of 2022. The bank contends that 94 percent of healthcare companies are using either AI and/or ML in some capacity. As a result, AI has the potential to directly influence healthcare compliance by helping to streamline key processes while enhancing data analytics capabilities.

The potential deployment of AI in compliance processes, however, introduces several complexities, particularly around data privacy and ethical considerations. The European Union’s new legislation on AI aims to ensure safety and adherence to fundamental rights, something that will influence benchmarks for global standards, yet this will still take time to be replicated in other key regions. The U.S. government has outlined its own requirements for AI systems to enhance privacy and prevent bias. The underlying message in these regulations is the importance of aligning AI deployment with existing legal frameworks to mitigate risks and enhance patient care outcomes.

Building a Reliable Compliance Program in the Age of AI

To ensure a strong compliance framework in a healthcare organization implementing AI, the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services suggests that the following elements should be present in an organization’s AI compliance strategy:

• Implementing written policies
• Designating a compliance officer and, if possible, a committee
• Providing effective training
• Establishing communication channels
• Performing internal audits while enforcing disciplinary guidelines.

A healthcare organization will also need to establish a structured approach for departments wishing to implement AI that enables comprehensive risk management while meeting business needs. This involves identifying relevant internal and external stakeholders (including Board members with practical AI experience), selecting partners aligned with organizational values, and setting clear data governance standards.

Enhancing Data Security through Cybersecurity Measures

With the increasing adoption of digital health technologies like AI, cybersecurity is fast becoming a significant component of healthcare compliance. The increase in global cyberattacks has put a spotlight on healthcare, with it being a prime target due to the sensitive nature of its data. Last year, the World Economic Forum revealed that the healthcare industry alone reported data breaches which cost an average of $10.93 million per breach – almost twice that of the financial industry. To protect against attacks in an age of AI, it is imperative that healthcare organizations employ the latest cyber security protocols and parameters that are aligned with both their local government guidance and global standards.

At Axios, protecting patient data confidentiality is one of our most critical responsibilities. Ahmed El Hassan, Head of Quality, Compliance and Ethics at Axios International, says that patients have the right to control their personal data and make decisions about its use and disclosure.

“Axios fully respects patients’ autonomy by obtaining their informed consent for the collection, use, and sharing of their data and honoring their preferences regarding privacy settings and data sharing. From collection to data sharing, it is guided by the individual’s informed consent. Patient autonomy is pivotal in nurturing a trust-based relationship between healthcare providers and patients, a trust that is integral to the integrity of the healthcare system and the efficacy of the patient treatment journey,” says Ahmed.

By prioritizing informed consent and respecting patient preferences, Axios reinforces the trust that is foundational to the patient-provider relationship and crucial for a seamless and effective treatment journey.

Regulatory Changes and Compliance Requirements

Updates to HIPAA Regulations

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations have undergone several recent updates aimed at enhancing patient rights and facilitating better access to personal health information (PHI). Key changes include reducing the response time for PHI requests and simplifying the process for patients to direct their PHI to third parties. The upcoming 2024 HIPAA revisions have clearly taken a hard line when it comes to patient data safety, with a focus on equipping patients with the ability to control their health data. Patients can now obtain copies of their records in electronic form and can ensure corrections and/or amendments to inaccurate information can be requested.

Ethical Compliance and Sustainability

Early last year, the EU introduced its Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) which was a watershed moment in ethically responsible business practices in healthcare. These directives require healthcare organizations to assess and mitigate their impact on human rights and the environment. The resulting goal of greater transparency and accountability is meant to encourage new, more stringent compliance benchmarks that global healthcare providers must meet if they are to be seen as ready for the technological advancements that are at their doorstep.

Considerations Moving Forward

Healthcare organizations must put in place advanced compliance solutions to ensure their practices align with the evolving digital landscape and the latest standards and regulations. This can help safeguard their operations so they can continue to deliver safe and ethical healthcare services to the patients they serve. Looking ahead, the best performing, and most trusted healthcare organizations will be those that patients can rely on.