Changing Consumer Expectations and Behaviors Reshaping Pharmaceutical Industry

Faced with rising out-of-pocket costs, complex treatment plans, and armed with new social media tools and more information, pharmaceutical customers are changing the ways they purchase drugs and their role in drug use. That shift creates valuable opportunities for the life sciences sector to benefit from deeper insights from the individuals using their products, according to a new report by PwC's Health Research Institute (HRI). "Patients are exerting greater control over their healthcare and they want their medication experience to be effective, personalized and meaningful," said Karla Anderson, principal, PwC. "If their expectations are met, they're more likely to follow the proper course of treatment and remain engaged customers far longer.  Drug makers that tap into critical information about customers and their behaviors in order to adjust business strategies will be well-positioned to demonstrate value in the new health economy." Drug companies have long communicated directly with patients – through advertising and focus groups. But in today's complex and competitive environment, a more sophisticated customer segmentation strategy is needed. Pharma customers expect the same focus on their needs that they experience in other industries such as retail, banking and travel. When drug makers adopt a more customer-centric approach, the result is more engaged patients who "own" their treatment plans and better manage their conditions. HRI's report, entitled Customer experience in the pharmaceutical sector: Getting closer to the patient, includes survey results from more than 700 U.S. consumers about their preferences and behavior in drug treatment selection and use. Additional key findings include:

The report also highlights defining elements of the next generation patient including appetite for personalized information and real-time feedback, active participation in care and treatment, convenience and on-demand services, and options for comparison shopping. "Understanding consumer behavior isn't a one-time event -- rather, it should cover the full lifecycle of a drug. As empowered consumers take on more responsibility in their healthcare, drug makers must find ways to create meaningful experiences and relationships with them," said Paul D'Alessandro, PwC principal and Customer Leader, Health Industries.