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How can companies thrive in a competitive environment? 

By Cliona Brady, Chief Operating Officer, Axios International

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.