As a team dedicated to delivering real-patient stories, we have the privilege of speaking with hundreds of individuals, building connections and learning about what it is truly like to live with a chronic condition. In these conversations, there is a similarity that everyone brings up when speaking to us as a team – an element that is frequently missed in treatment and beyond – the impact on mental health.
Working in the fast-paced world of pharmaceuticals and healthcare, it’s easy to get caught up in the science, the molecules, the need to hit targets in an extremely sensitive market. But often, those who speak to us (although they frequently sing the praises of those who support their healthcare journey) discuss the depression and feelings of isolation that are often overlooked.
We understand the critical connection between understanding patients at a holistic level and the benefits it brings to us all. Conversations with patients when building our experiences often reveal a myriad of fears, concerns and uncertainties. In our recent Meet the Patient episodes, it is clear the impact goes well beyond the immediate treatment and one common fear is being forgotten post-treatment.
Even if our clients are focused on treatment of the condition, understanding unmet needs unlocks all-important conversations, and unique insights to better improve customer experience. By incorporating elements that bring to life the impact of the condition on mental health, we aim to create a more comprehensive and empowering experience that complements the vital work of leading pharmaceutical companies.
The Power of Storytelling: Bridging the Emotional Divide
We don’t shy away from sharing the emotional complexities of navigating illness and putting you into the patient’s shoes to experience them yourself firsthand. Participants have often shared the emotional impact one specific element raised with them. And while these themes can be emotionally charged, they serve a vital purpose. They acknowledge the reality of mental health struggles and offer a sense of shared experience, allowing participants to connect with the stories on a deeper level.
By giving voice to the emotional journey, we create space for empathy and understanding which goes well beyond a basic understanding of the condition. This, in turn, can empower participants to take actionable change that ultimately leads to better results for their company and the patients they serve.
Delivering Empathy
Compared to other means to understand the patient experience such as through bringing in patients to share their stories, or to simply spend the day wearing a medical device, we combine several elements to truly place you into the shoes of a patient.
Experiences can range from a call from a loved one whom you have to share sensitive information with to enduring several small distractions throughout the day to help you better understand the issues faced by those with a chronic condition. This is supported by individuals’ real stories and insights.
Driving Change
Better understanding the impact of a chronic condition on a person’s mental health can drive changes that professionals may have not yet considered. To truly understand the changes that these insights can bring, get in touch to learn how you can try an experience for yourself.
