Medication non-adherence costs are skyrocketing. Approximately 50 percent of patients do not take their medication as prescribed, costing pharmaceutical companies an estimated $637 billion in revenue each year. At the same time, pharmaceutical companies are feeling pressure to differentiate themselves from the competition in the eyes of providers by offering value-based, “beyond-the-pill” services. In light of these trends, pharma companies are partnering with vendors and payers to deliver value and improve adherence.

Most of the large pharmaceutical companies are working with vendors to power their patient support programs. The programs aim to improve patient adherence and engagement for chronic conditions through education and support. While the various patient programs have similar goals, they seek to differentiate themselves with unique offerings. For example, for basic diabetes education, most pharma companies offer web and print content with topics ranging from blood glucose to nutrition and activity.

Since cost is a common barrier to patients staying on their medication, most companies include financial support, as well. Some patient support programs differentiate themselves by including an element of human support. These programs offer call centers, which give patients the ability to ask specific questions. Some pharma companies go to the next level, offering one-on-one coaching with certified diabetes educators, where patients can receive customized, educational and therapeutic support from a clinician. At the same time, some patient programs are incorporating a digital strategy with apps aimed at improving education and adherence. There are a variety of apps being offered through the programs; some have handy medication reminders, while others have the ability to track activity, food, and/or blood glucose meter data in order to drive insights.