The patient support program (PSP) landscape in the Gulf region, including the UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, is a mix of government-led initiatives, pharmaceutical company programs, and efforts by patient advocacy groups. While the availability and accessibility of these programs vary across countries, they generally focus on areas such as financial access, disease education, medication adherence support, counseling, and lifestyle management [1] [2]. Healthcare sector in Gulf region is fragmented across regions, with patient support programs focusing on various parameters to transform healthcare. For e.g., Saudi Arabia’s vision 2030 initiatives emphasize more on digital healthcare innovation, quality of care and patient experience; UAE focuses on leveraging digital health solutions and telemedicine to make healthcare more efficient and accessible; Kuwait has strong programs driven by patient advocacy groups; Qatar has significant investment in healthcare and is progressing to adopt innovative PSPs for improving quality of care to the patients [3].

As healthcare infrastructure continues to evolve, there is a growing need for a holistic approach to healthcare that integrates patient support systems to improve outcomes and enhance quality of life. In this blog, we will explore different dimensions of the patient support in the Gulf region, focusing on distinguishing support system offered for locals and the expats.

Overview on various PSP types

• Financial Support for Locals [4]:
  
  • Co-pay assistance programs are relatively limited, as the governments provide universal healthcare coverage to their citizens
  • Prescription drug discounts or vouchers are occasionally offered by private insurers and pharmaceutical companies for specific medications
• Financial Support for expatriates [4]:
  
  • Pharmaceutical companies provide co-pay assistance cards for the expats to be used at pharmacies and collaborate with the hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, etc. for reduced co-pay, thereby reducing the out-of-pocket burden of the medications
  • Initiatives are ongoing to provide affordable treatment to the expats (underinsured or low-income groups who are unable to afford the copay) by widening the scope of public private partnership to include expat population as well
• Non-Financial Support [Locals and expatriates*]:
  • Disease education and awareness initiatives are widely promoted by both government entities and pharmaceutical companies
  • Medication adherence support programs, such as reminders and counseling, are offered by some pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers
  • Nurse support and case management services are primarily available in private healthcare facilities
  • Telehealth and remote monitoring programs have gained traction, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic
  • Transportation assistance for medical appointments is generally not widely available, except for some initiatives by non-profit organizations

*Expatriates employed in the private sector or with private health insurance can access non-financial PSPs offered by private healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies.

It is important to note that the availability and extent of these PSPs can vary based on factors such as the specific disease or condition, the healthcare provider or pharmaceutical company involved, and the patient's insurance coverage or financial status. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of some support services, such as telehealth and remote monitoring, in these countries.

Case Study: Enhancing PSP in Immunology

A leading pharmaceutical company sought to improve its PSP for immunology products, with particular emphasis on Drug X. This initiative aimed to enhance patient affordability by providing co-pay support for adult patients prescribed with this medication. To accomplish these goals, IQVIA carried out a web-based survey targeting physicians and patients in Qatar who are a part of the PSP.

Challenges to the success of PSPs in the Gulf

While the healthcare systems in the Gulf countries are generally advanced, below multifaceted challenges related to educational, regulatory, financial, and infrastructural can impede the widespread adoption and success of PSPs in this region.

Opportunities and Call to action: Addressing hurdles in PSP implementation

• Pharmaceutical Companies:
  • Increase investment in PSPs, focusing on personalized services, digital solutions, and remote monitoring tools
  • Foster collaborations with patient advocacy groups, healthcare providers, and government agencies to ensure comprehensive and coordinated support [5]
  • Tailor programs to address cultural and linguistic diversity, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all patient populations
  • Leverage data and analytics to continuously improve program effectiveness and measure outcomes
• Government bodies:
  • Develop and implement comprehensive national strategies for PSPs, with a focus on chronic disease management and preventive care
  • Enhance access to support services for all patients, including expatriates and underserved communities
  • Allocate dedicated resources and funding for patient education, screening, and support initiatives [5]
  • Establish regulatory frameworks that facilitate data sharing and collaboration between stakeholders while maintaining patient privacy
  • Encourage public-private partnerships and knowledge-sharing across the Gulf region to promote best practices [5]
• Patient advocacy groups:
  • Increase education and awareness to the patients by producing educational materials, workshops, experts’ advice, etc. helping them better understand disease conditions and treatment options
  • Provide emotional support by connecting patients having similar experiences for improving well-being
  • Guide the patients through process of accessing healthcare, understanding insurance policies and healthcare providers
  • Establish partnership with healthcare providers, government and pharmaceutical companies to promote access to necessary treatment

By taking a collaborative and patient-centric approach, pharmaceutical companies and governments in the Gulf region can create a robust and sustainable ecosystem of PSPs. This will not only improve disease management and medication adherence but also enhance overall patient well-being and quality of life, contributing to better health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

Where can IQVIA support pharmaceutical companies?

IQVIA, as a leading provider of advanced analytics, technology solutions, and expertise in healthcare and life sciences, can play a crucial role in supporting pharmaceutical companies and government bodies in the Gulf region for proper implementation of PSPs tailored to needs of the patients. By collaborating with IQVIA, pharmaceutical companies and government bodies in the Gulf region can benefit from its global expertise, local knowledge, and advanced capabilities, enabling the successful implementation of PSPs that address patient’s needs and expectations while driving better patient outcomes and healthcare experiences. Here are some ways IQVIA can help:

[1] IQVIA Patient Support Programs: Making a difference to the healthcare experience. Accessed June 2024. Available from: https://www.iqvia.com/blogs/2022/07/iqvia-patient-support-programs-making-a-difference-to-the-healthcare-experience
[2] Design and Refine: Make Patient Support Programs Work for your Patients. Accessed June 2024. Available from: https://www.iqvia.com/-/media/iqvia/pdfs/asia-pacific/white-papers/design-and-refine.pdf
[3] Overview of Procurement and Reimbursement of Pharmaceuticals in Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Egypt: Challenges and Opportunities. Accessed June 2024. Available from: https://meridian.allenpress.com/innovationsjournals-JQSH/article/6/4/127/497192/Overview-of-Procurement-and-Reimbursement-of
[4] Access and barriers to health care delivery in Arab countries: a review. Accessed June 2024. Available from: https://www.emro.who.int/emhj-volume-18-2012/issue-12/09.html
[5] Expert Recommendations to Bridge Gaps in Heart Failure Patient Support in the Middle East and Africa Region. Accessed June 2024. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10796245/
[6] Measuring the Impact of a Patient Support Program. Accessed June 2024. Available from: https://www.iqvia.com/locations/belgium/newsroom/2021/03/measuring-the-impact-of-a-patient-support-program
[7] Generating Real World Evidence from Patient Support Programs to Enhance Patient Care. Accessed June 2024. Available from: https://www.iqvia.com/locations/canada/blogs/2020/11/generating-real-world-evidence-from-patient-support-programs-to-enhance-patient-care