Category: Uncategorized

24^th October 2024

Healthcare services are rapidly evolving and moving to digital formats when it comes to services outside the physical environment. A popular part of this growth is the rise of mobile health (mHealth) apps which play a key role in healthcare automation. However, as the world digitalizes, a pertinent question arises: do patients truly want these apps to track their healthcare?  

Recent trends suggest that the answer is a resounding yes, especially when these apps are designed to meet specific patient needs and concerns. Mobile health applications, electronic health records, telehealth, telemedicine, and wearable devices enable patients to monitor their health, allowing physicians to detect potential health issues early, and develop personalized treatment plans based on the patients’ own data and health history.  

Jean-Noel Saba, Digital Health Manager for Axios+ at Axios International says that digital health tools have truly transformed the way we manage our health. “By tracking our health data, we can become more proactive about our well-being, making informed decisions that can lead to better health outcomes. It’s not just about improving efficiency or cutting costs; it’s about giving patients the power to take charge of their health journey. This patient centered approach – upon which Axios+ is built – is key to making a difference in our patients’ day-to-day lives and long-term health,” he says.

Increased usage and interest 

Concurrently, the use of mHealth apps to access medical records and manage health is rising. In the US alone, the HealthIT.gov reports an increase in app usage to access medical records, with 51 percent of individuals doing so in 2022, up from 38 percent in 2020. The growing reliance on digital tools for health management is clear in daily life, with patients finding these apps convenient for frequent access to their health information. 

While the interest in health apps is high, patients are increasingly particular about the apps they use and how those apps, in turn, use their data. Nishapa Leeleartkij from Thailand is an ulcerative colitis patient who is enrolled in the Axios International’s Patient Support Programs (PSPs). Since her diagnosis a few years ago, the 45-year-old has been using digital apps to monitor her condition, “I use different apps for different purposes. Some help me to understand the patterns of my medical condition, so I can better manage my lifestyle and treatments to prevent or minimize flare-ups. So many apps are available for patients to choose from, so the key is to find the best one that suits your needs.” 

Patients worry about data breaches 

Concern is paramount for patients when it comes to digital healthcare tracking, data privacy, and security. Despite healthcare institutions and data owners implementing stringent security measures when storing and managing data, patients worry about data breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive health information, thus preventing some from embracing digital health trackers. 

Additionally, patients can easily experience information overload with social media and internet search engines providing health information on demand. So, it is crucial for physicians and other healthcare providers to not only present data in a format that patients can easily understand but also anticipate questions about their condition and debunk untruths patients may encounter online. Those who are less comfortable with technology might find digital health tracking intimidating or cumbersome to navigate without training or support from health tech providers.  

Nishapa shares, “I have struggled with some of the more complicated app usage and data upload instructions in the past, which has prevented me from utilizing digital health tracking apps more effectively. I tend to shy away from those that do not have adequate, clear instructions on how to upload my health data.” With apps and ease of access to digital services now second nature, a significant majority of patients strongly desire to manage their health digitally. According to PYMNTS.com, a digital data platform, 76 percent of patients show interest in using digital methods, including apps, to track their health. This interest is particularly pronounced in younger generations, given their propensity to receive healthcare insight and education from social media applications on the go and who are even willing to switch healthcare providers for better digital health management options. The convenience of digital interactions for appointment reminders, test results, and communication with providers is highly sought after, reflecting a shift towards a more tech-savvy patient demographic. 

In Mexico, patients’ perspectives on using mobile apps for health care monitoring are mixed. A study conducted in 2023 by the specialized portal Doctoralia revealed that 65 percent of respondents use some type of mobile technology to manage aspects of their health, such as medication reminders or virtual consultations. However, only 42 percent of them were completely satisfied with current applications due to concerns about data privacy and the accuracy of the information provided. 

Graciela M., a patient with type 2 diabetes from Mexico City, says: “The apps help me to monitor my glucose levels, but I am always afraid that my data could be used without my consent, and I feel that the data about my disease is only of interest to me, my family and my doctor.” This feeling is common among users, who fear that their personal data could be shared with third parties without their knowledge. On the other hand, other patients value the convenience and access to these apps’ real-time information, allowing them to better manage their health. 

Consumers driving future of healthcare 

Dr. Karen DeSalvo, Chief Health Officer at Google Health, emphasizes that “the future of health is consumer driven. People will expect a mobile-first experience with more personalized insights, services, and care.” However, the success of these apps hinges on their ability to align with consumer expectations and provide a seamless user experience. Jean-Noel adds, “While the benefits of digital health tracking are clear, there’s still room for improvement. Health tech providers need to focus on making their solutions user-friendly, offer solid tech support, and prioritize stronger data security and privacy. By addressing these areas, we can help more patients feel comfortable and confident in embracing digital health solutions as a whole.” 

The potential benefits of these tools are immense, empowering patients to take charge of their health. However, for digital health tracking to be widely embraced, healthcare providers and tech companies must address issues like data security and ease of use. By doing so, they can create a future where digital health tools are not only convenient but trusted and effective allies in managing patient care. 

To get in touch with our program teams, visit axiosint.com/contact-us

31^st July 2024

 Healthcare in Mexico is an evolving topic of discussion, especially considering the challenges and opportunities patients face regarding access to health services. Mexico’s fragmented health system complicates the patient’s journey, especially in the case of chronic conditions, such as oncology.

In recent years, the reorganization of the Mexican health system, with the change of the Seguro Popular in January 2020 to the Institute of Health for Welfare (Insabi) and its subsequent replacement by the IMSS Bienestar in 2023, has introduced both significant opportunities and challenges, as this system serves more than 60 million people. It seeks to provide universal access to health services, especially for those not covered by Social Security.

However, the transition has been complicated, as highlighted by Laura Suchil, clinical researcher and former Director General of Research at Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCAN): “The lack of clarity and communication about the transition process has created confusion among patients. In addition, maintaining the drug supply chain and retaining healthcare professionals are ongoing challenges.”

Laura, who has extensive experience in supporting patient programs and is a member of the Asociación Mexicana para el Estudio de la Hematología, said, “It is essential to work with civil society organizations (CSOs) to compensate for resource constraints in public institutions.” She also said that CSOs not only provide additional support to patients but also help cover critical aspects such as housing, transportation, and adequate information.  “This collaborative approach has become essential, allowing the creation of targeted patient support programs that strengthen the health system’s responsiveness and improve the patient experience,” she added while speaking at a webinar organized by Axios International on ‘There is no health without access: Navigating a patient’s journey in Mexico.’

Civil society perspective

Organizations must adapt to the diverse circumstances of the patient’s journey, from lack of care to specialist shortages, and work together to provide comprehensive support.

“It is crucial for organizations to collect and systemize information to facilitate the decision-making process. The fragmentation of the health system and information complicates the picture, but through networks and alliances, we can offer better support to patients,” said Leticia Aguiar, General Manager of ConAcción Salud and an expert consultant in civil society organizations.

It is also very important to prepare patients to participate in healthcare reform. The new architecture for social engagement in healthcare offers spaces for patients to contribute their expertise and knowledge, which can lead to a more patient-centered system. Education and empowerment in this context benefit the individual, strengthen the patient community, and improve the overall healthcare system.

A comprehensive and collaborative approach

The patient journey in Mexico is marked by several challenges, from economic conditions to lack of access to information and appropriate treatment. However, it is possible to improve access to quality healthcare through innovative and collaborative approaches, such as those designed and managed by Axios International in partnership with the program sponsors and supported by various CSOs.

A patient-centered approach, such as that taken by Axios International, an access to healthcare company with over two decades of experience designing and implementing access solutions, prioritizing their unique needs and experiences, is essential to move towards a more inclusive and efficient healthcare system in Mexico.

Valeriia Mykolaienko, Regional Operations Lead at Axios International, speaking at the webinar, said: “One of the key opportunities is to continue to put the patient at the center, addressing accessibility challenges in a sustainable way by working together as partners with various stakeholders in the market. However, one of the biggest opportunities we see is having a more holistic approach to supporting patients because most of the patient journey happens outside the hospital setting.” It should be emphasized that one of the main challenges of the health system in Mexico is access to quality healthcare and affordability of innovative medicines. Collaboration with multiple stakeholders is crucial to addressing these issues in a sustainable way. In addition, a holistic approach that considers patient support outside of the hospital setting is needed, which is essential to ease the burden on the health system and improve treatment outcomes.

Patient empowerment and continuing education

Another crucial aspect is patient empowerment. Patient education about their disease, treatment management, and support from family members and caregivers is critical to improving health outcomes.

Implementing digital solutions in health is urgent, especially for remote communities. Such digital tools enable efficient healthcare delivery and more robust data collection, essential for planning and developing effective health policies and access to healthcare strategies.

Digital apps such as Axios+  provide intuitive tools to enhance patients’ experiences and medical outcomes while facilitating the delivery of Axios-managed Patient Access Programs (PAPs and PSPs).

Effectively navigating the patient journey in Mexico, from the fragmentation of the health system to the accessibility of innovative treatments, is more critical than ever before. This is why scaling and seizing opportunities for improvement through collaboration with like-minded partners is significant. Collaboration between institutions, CSOs, and other stakeholders, along with holistic patient empowerment, education, and implementation of digital technologies, can transform the Mexican healthcare system to benefit more patients.

It is possible to build a more resilient and patient-centered healthcare system that improves health outcomes and promotes patients’ holistic well-being anywhere in the world. The patient journey in Mexico can be arduous, but with collaborative efforts, a more holistic approach, and a shared vision to make access a reality for more people, the path to equitable and efficient health care is achievable.

29^th May, 2024

“The relationship between the patient and the healthcare provider must be a partnership to which both parties must contribute in order to make it work.” – Dr. Alberto Hidalgo, a genetics specialist at the National Rehabilitation Institute in Mexico City.

Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension and cancer, among others, represent a major burden for health systems. The epidemiological shift in disease burden from acute to chronic diseases over the past few decades has rendered acute care models of health service delivery inadequate to address the health needs of the population.

Poor adherence to chronic disease treatments is one of the key drivers of health system burden. Adherence to long-term therapy for chronic illnesses in developed countries averages 50 percent. In low- and middle-income countries, the rates are even lower. It’s no surprise that healthcare providers have spent years looking at ways to ensure that patients comply with the prescribed treatment.

The impact of non-adherence grows as the burden of chronic disease grows worldwide. Consequences of non-adherence to long-term therapies are poor health outcomes and increased healthcare costs. That’s because poor adherence to long-term therapies severely compromises the effectiveness of treatment. This is a critical issue both for a patient’s quality of life and for health economics.

What is adherence?

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines adherence as “the extent to which a person’s behavior—taking medication, following a diet and/or executing lifestyle changes—corresponds with agreed-upon recommendations from a health care provider.”

Earlier, it was considered that either the patients themselves, their health providers, or both were the source of this non-compliance. Nowadays, there’s a better understanding that the adherence process is dynamic and complex. That is why ensuring adherence to treatment goes far beyond just remembering to take your medication. The ability of patients to follow treatment plans in an optimal manner is often compromised by more than one barrier, including social and economic factors, the healthcare team and system, the characteristics of the disease, disease therapies and other patient-related factors. Addressing these barriers holistically is key to improving treatment adherence.

Simplistic approaches to improve adherence to treatment may no longer be the right approach. But what is? Let’s explore some of these solutions.

Partnership with patients

According to Dr. Alberto Hidalgo, a genetics specialist at the National Rehabilitation Institute in Mexico City, “the relationship between the patient and the healthcare provider must be a partnership to which both parties must contribute to make it work.”

In other words, the quality of the relationship between the provider and the patient is a key factor in maintaining adherence. “Patients should be active partners with health professionals in their own care, and good communication between the patient and the health professional is a must for an effective clinical practice”, added Dr. Hidalgo.

A personalized approach

Silvia Mendez, Country Operations Lead, Mexico at Axios International, has seen first-hand that effective adherence solutions must take into consideration the many dimensions of adherence.

“It starts with a strong relationship with the provider, but once they leave their doctors office, there are many other issues introduced,” said Silvia.

“Affordability is still one of the most significant challenges for patients in adhering to their prescribed treatment. However, there are other factors at play, such as unexpected expenses related to their disease or treatment, lack of understanding of their journey from the initial stages of diagnosis to reaching the benefit of their treatment, and even limited transportation options for appointments,” she says, adding “Furthermore, medical appointments often have long wait times, and there are gaps in the referral network. These factors not only hinder patient compliance to treatment but also put increased pressure on the healthcare system as non-compliance often breeds new complications in a patient’s health.”

That is why it is critical to look at the patient journey holistically and provide tailored, personalized adherence interventions for each patient because each is different.

Adopting an evidence-based approach, Axios International’s proprietary Patient Needs Assessment Tool (PNAT) customizes services to each patient, thereby increasing adherence, engagement, and program cost-efficiency​. The patient undergoes a personal needs assessment using PNAT to determine the support they need to stay on their prescribed treatment. By utilizing this validated scientific tool to assess and identify the unmet needs of the patient and understand the variations in adherence patterns and individual motivations, Axios is able to customize interventions to address the individual adherence needs of a patient, and in turn, maximize their medical benefit.

For instance, one patient may discontinue therapy due to intolerable side effects, the inconvenience of doctor visits, and apprehension about being reprimanded for non-adherence. Another patient with the same diagnosis may skip doses due to a demanding lifestyle, frequent travel, and a lack of comprehension regarding the severity of their condition. Recognizing these nuanced differences is pivotal in devising effective access strategies and solutions that cater to each patient’s needs. Based on the results of the PNAT assessment, patients enrolled in an Axios Supported Program have access to a personalized treatment support plan that addresses their therapy-related and social-related needs. Personalized care recognizes each individual’s unique circumstances, a key factor in achieving better health outcomes in long-term chronic disease management.

A multi-disciplinary approach to delivering personalized care

Adherence is a dynamic process and delivering personalized care requires a multi-disciplinary approach.

Healthcare providers should assess the patient’s readiness to adhere, provide advice on how to do it and follow up on the patient’s progress. However, healthcare providers often don’t have the time to address these individual challenges on their own, given their patient load and other responsibilities, especially in a pandemic situation where this was apparent. Access consulting and program partner Axios International can help complement their efforts by providing additional support to patients once they leave the facility, continuing to follow up with them even outside the hospital.

Social support received by patients from other members of their community is another important factor and has been consistently reported as an important driver of health outcomes and behaviors.

To overcome growing treatment adherence barriers, a stronger commitment to a multidisciplinary approach is needed. This will require coordinated action from healthcare professionals, policymakers, patient support groups, communities and patients themselves.

Adhering to treatment improves patient outcomes, leading to better health, reduced symptoms, and increased quality of life. Societally, it lowers healthcare costs, reduces disease spread, and enhances overall public health and productivity.

29^th May 2024

Healthcare organizations often face the dual challenge of safeguarding patient data while embracing innovations promising to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in healthcare delivery.

Axios International specializes in the design and implementation of sustainable access to healthcare solutions, with a particular focus in emerging markets and low- and middle-income countries. Our expertise in understanding the entire spectrum of the patient journey requires us to identify and mitigate a wide range of compliance issues.

For that reason, staying on top of new regulations and trends affecting the compliance space is a cornerstone of our business model and how we serve patients. Here, we explore the key trends shaping the compliance landscape and best practices for maintaining compliance in this rapidly evolving sector.

Technological Innovations and Compliance

AI and Compliance

No conversation about healthcare technology is complete today without mentioning the impact of artificial intelligence (AI). Morgan Stanley recently reported that the amount allocated to AI and machine learning (ML) by healthcare entities is anticipated to be 10.5 percent this year, more than double that of 2022. The bank contends that 94 percent of healthcare companies are using either AI and/or ML in some capacity. As a result, AI has the potential to directly influence healthcare compliance by helping to streamline key processes while enhancing data analytics capabilities.

The potential deployment of AI in compliance processes, however, introduces several complexities, particularly around data privacy and ethical considerations. The European Union’s new legislation on AI aims to ensure safety and adherence to fundamental rights, something that will influence benchmarks for global standards, yet this will still take time to be replicated in other key regions. The U.S. government has outlined its own requirements for AI systems to enhance privacy and prevent bias. The underlying message in these regulations is the importance of aligning AI deployment with existing legal frameworks to mitigate risks and enhance patient care outcomes.

Building a Reliable Compliance Program in the Age of AI

To ensure a strong compliance framework in a healthcare organization implementing AI, the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services suggests that the following elements should be present in an organization’s AI compliance strategy:

• Implementing written policies
• Designating a compliance officer and, if possible, a committee
• Providing effective training
• Establishing communication channels
• Performing internal audits while enforcing disciplinary guidelines.

A healthcare organization will also need to establish a structured approach for departments wishing to implement AI that enables comprehensive risk management while meeting business needs. This involves identifying relevant internal and external stakeholders (including Board members with practical AI experience), selecting partners aligned with organizational values, and setting clear data governance standards.

Enhancing Data Security through Cybersecurity Measures

With the increasing adoption of digital health technologies like AI, cybersecurity is fast becoming a significant component of healthcare compliance. The increase in global cyberattacks has put a spotlight on healthcare, with it being a prime target due to the sensitive nature of its data. Last year, the World Economic Forum revealed that the healthcare industry alone reported data breaches which cost an average of $10.93 million per breach – almost twice that of the financial industry. To protect against attacks in an age of AI, it is imperative that healthcare organizations employ the latest cyber security protocols and parameters that are aligned with both their local government guidance and global standards.

At Axios, protecting patient data confidentiality is one of our most critical responsibilities. Ahmed El Hassan, Head of Quality, Compliance and Ethics at Axios International, says that patients have the right to control their personal data and make decisions about its use and disclosure.

“Axios fully respects patients’ autonomy by obtaining their informed consent for the collection, use, and sharing of their data and honoring their preferences regarding privacy settings and data sharing. From collection to data sharing, it is guided by the individual’s informed consent. Patient autonomy is pivotal in nurturing a trust-based relationship between healthcare providers and patients, a trust that is integral to the integrity of the healthcare system and the efficacy of the patient treatment journey,” says Ahmed.

By prioritizing informed consent and respecting patient preferences, Axios reinforces the trust that is foundational to the patient-provider relationship and crucial for a seamless and effective treatment journey.

Regulatory Changes and Compliance Requirements

Updates to HIPAA Regulations

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations have undergone several recent updates aimed at enhancing patient rights and facilitating better access to personal health information (PHI). Key changes include reducing the response time for PHI requests and simplifying the process for patients to direct their PHI to third parties. The upcoming 2024 HIPAA revisions have clearly taken a hard line when it comes to patient data safety, with a focus on equipping patients with the ability to control their health data. Patients can now obtain copies of their records in electronic form and can ensure corrections and/or amendments to inaccurate information can be requested.

Ethical Compliance and Sustainability

Early last year, the EU introduced its Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) which was a watershed moment in ethically responsible business practices in healthcare. These directives require healthcare organizations to assess and mitigate their impact on human rights and the environment. The resulting goal of greater transparency and accountability is meant to encourage new, more stringent compliance benchmarks that global healthcare providers must meet if they are to be seen as ready for the technological advancements that are at their doorstep.

Considerations Moving Forward

Healthcare organizations must put in place advanced compliance solutions to ensure their practices align with the evolving digital landscape and the latest standards and regulations. This can help safeguard their operations so they can continue to deliver safe and ethical healthcare services to the patients they serve. Looking ahead, the best performing, and most trusted healthcare organizations will be those that patients can rely on.

In recent years, digital health technologies have revolutionized how healthcare is delivered, providing patients with access to faster, more efficient, and more convenient care.

From Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Machine Learning (ML) to telemedicine, these technologies can potentially improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and increase access to care for people worldwide.

In essence, AI simulates human intelligence and allows to process large amounts of apparently unconnected data by machines, especially computer systems. In healthcare, AI and ML solutions have increasingly become a part of the healthcare ecosystem and are transforming how healthcare is delivered. Also, since healthcare data is often fragmented and is present in various formats, by using AI and machine learning technologies, organizations can connect disparate data to get a more unified picture of the individuals behind the data. Likewise, machine learning is used to help medical professionals care for patients and manage clinical data.

With the help of machine power, we can provide user-centric experiences. Healthcare organizations can find insights faster and more accurately through improved efficiency in operations.

Telemedicine is also being increasingly used to allow doctors to make more data-driven, real-time decisions that may improve the patient experience and health outcomes by enabling them to work more toward virtual care alternatives throughout the care continuum. A case in point is how Covid-19 played a catalytic role in the increasing use of telemedicine during this time.

Predicting health outcomes

Another game-changing use of technology in healthcare is for predicting health outcomes. In medicine, AI is also deployed in predictive analytics to explore patient datasets and forecast the likelihood of certain diseases/disorders, which benefits both the patients and healthcare providers.

Healthcare digitalization can, thus, play an instrumental role in improving accessibility by complementing and even enhancing physical systems. It shifts the focus toward patient-centric care systems and helps healthcare providers make more strategic, informed decisions reaching patients wherever they are to provide better-quality care.

In the patient journey, predictive analysis is instrumental in the healthcare system and our ability to provide tailored comfortable patient care. Thanks to AI and ML, we can anticipate the influx of people, which in turn can support care center decision-makers in allocating the right healthcare staff to the right place at the right time.

With a focus on giving sustainable access to healthcare to patients, Axios International has created a comprehensive suite of digital tools that connect all stakeholders based on more than 25 years of specialized experience designing and managing Patient Support Programs (PSPs). Through the integrated Axios+ ecosystem, all parties communicate, interact, and work together to maximize patient support and health outcomes.

The conceptualization, development, and roll-out of Axios+ digital tools follow a traditional approach that involves a multi-stakeholder collaboration that strives towards a connected ecosystem and patient-centricity. The focus is then shifted to customizing the solution with global know-how to adapt to the local context and ensuring it is adopted across the value chain.

Axios+ aims to improve the medical outcomes of treatment by making it easy for patients to track and manage their therapy while facilitating and expediting the PSP referral process for physicians and the medication dispensing process for pharmacists.
Already, Axios+ has been rolled out in 22 countries and has impacted more than 14,500 patients in 90 programs. Over 3,140 physicians and 1,155 referring hospitals have used Axios+ so far. A recent Axios case study also shows that patients can get treatment up to 52 percent faster, allowing healthcare professionals to spend more time with more patients, eventually increasing their access to treatment.

Considering the healthcare disparities across the different countries regarding access to technology, education, or policies and framework, Axios+ Patient Management System remains the core of the Axios digital ecosystem, bridging patients to healthcare systems by going beyond healthcare facilities. However, multi-stakeholder collaboration is essential for improving access to treatment. All parties involved must want and be ready to transform into digital healthcare and start embracing the change.

As part of its strategy, Axios International already partners and seeks further collaboration with large digital companies and tech disruptors to build interconnectivity and help support patients in fulfilling their treatment journey with the ease and care they need. However, it is essential to note that digital is just an enabler that facilitates high interaction and engagement to support patients. The ecosystem must support and simplify human interactions rather than replace them.

Where do patients go when they need care and treatment? Or where do patients go after being diagnosed with a chronic disease? Many of us would immediately think of a hospital or a medical facility. However, that can be costly, as it could involve a long wait, and be ineffective. In addition, it places more burden on an already-overtaxed part of the healthcare system that is still reeling from the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The pandemic upended the entire health ecosystem. Hospitals had to reassign significant resources, time, and physical space to treat urgent cases. Unfortunately, despite the best efforts by providers, many patients in need of critical care and treatment for chronic diseases were left behind.

A new focus of care outside traditional settings was urgently required to provide access to patients needing post-acute and long-term care. The need of the hour is to develop an ecosystem that brings the necessary multidisciplinary healthcare provisions to the patient instead of bringing the patient to the provider.

Remote care alternatives and the adoption of innovative technology are an ideal combination to ensure adherence to treatment throughout the patient’s journey and deliver healthcare quickly. Solutions, including telehealth, remote patient monitoring (RPM), mobile clinics, and artificial intelligence (AI), will effectively treat patients and provide them with quality care from afar.

Improving the patient journey outside the healthcare facilities

Remote services have proven to provide a safe, convenient, and effective way to serve patients outside the hospital environment. Furthermore, it has also recently seen a rise in demand.

In 2019, Axios designed a cross-regional program spanning the UAE, KSA, and Kuwait. The program utilizes a team of government health agencies, pharmaceutical companies, physicians, pharmacies, and other stakeholders to help overcome the growing burden on traditional health facilities and help close the patient support gap that exists outside the hospital. The solution is centered around remote and at-home care customized to each patient’s needs.

The solution ensures eligible patients receive quality care, and sustainable support from Axios’ experienced, multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals in the most convenient in a conducive setting, either at home, in a facility, or a combination of the two.

Virtual appointments with physiotherapists and nutritionists, delivery of prescribed treatments directly to a patient’s door, and home visits by a multidisciplinary team of specialists are among the many options continuously emerging to offer higher quality care at a better value for both the patient and the healthcare system.

The program has already proven popular among patients and practitioners. During the past two years, 25,000+ patients have been enrolled in the program, while 2,000+ healthcare practitioners have recommended patients and guided them through their treatment journey. Also, over 4,000 specialty medications have been delivered to about 1,400 patients, offering individuals a new way to continue their prescribed treatment without visiting a hospital or pharmacy.

Over 98 percent of patients that received care at home requested value added services during multidisciplinary team visits. In the UAE alone, over 26,000 different services have been conducted for patients during the past two years. Axios Remote Care services include receiving a full nutrition plan, physiotherapy, diagnostic and vaccination services at home, as well as completing IV drips. Axios Home Care is currently available across many countries in the MENA region, with plans for further expansion.

In the past 25 years, Axios’ has committed to advocating access solutions that strengthen the healthcare system and maximize medical benefits for patients.

Generating further interest, this year at the Dubai International Pharmaceuticals and Technologies Conference and Exhibition (DUPHAT) 2023, Axios is conducting a scientific program on ‘The Impact of Access on Healthcare Efficiency,’ where Axios will engage and co-create conversations from different perspectives such as regulators, healthcare providers, private companies, societal and patients perspectives that will generate 360-degree point of views aimed at empowering the future of transforming accessibility to healthcare and increasing efficiency.

Photo caption: Axios International congratulates Cliona Brady (seated), Dr.Anas Nofal (left), and Roshel Jayasundera (right) on being promoted to top leadership positions at Axios. Cliona is now the Chief Operating Officer (COO). Anas and Roshel have now been promoted to Managing Partners. Our leaders play an active role in guiding the business by continuing to push boundaries to do what is right and embrace change. Axios wishes them all the best in their new roles!

Axios International, a global healthcare access company, is pleased to announce promotions in its global leadership team to support its strategic business initiatives.

With effect from January 1, 2023, Cliona Brady, Senior Director, Business Services, has been promoted to the position of Chief Operating Officer and will lead the strategic design and operational delivery of a global Business Services function, including Human Resources, Finance, IT, Compliance, Communications, and Corporate Governance. Anas Nofal, Senior Director of Greater Middle East and North Africa, and Roshel Jayasundera, Senior Director, Global Consulting, have both been promoted to the positions of Managing Partners and are responsible for guiding Axios’ strategic direction, developing and implementing organizational goals by managing Axios International’s diverse teams and client relationships worldwide.

Cliona, who joined Axios in 2009, helped restructure the foundation of Axios in the past 10 years and made it where it is today. In her new role, she will provide leadership and management to ensure that the business has effective people, operational controls, and administrative and reporting procedures in place. Anas joined in 2011 and started Axios’ first program in MENA. Today he has successfully developed the business and implemented innovative projects in all of Axios’ healthcare access and adherence programs and significantly expanded its footprint in the Greater Middle East and Africa regions. Roshel joined Axios in 2016 and has been instrumental in overseeing high-performing consulting services globally as well as operational teams in Latin America, Europe, Africa, and Asia.

Dr. Joseph Saba, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Axios International said, “As the company marked its 25^th anniversary and reached a critical size and footprint, strengthening one of our greatest assets – the Axios family is a priority. Our leaders play an active role in guiding the business by continuing to push boundaries, do what is right and never stand still in embracing change. Anas and Roshel will continue to nurture client and partners relationships roles and grow Axios footprint and impact in their new position as ‘Managing Partners,’ while Cliona will reinforce the internal teams in her role as the new ‘Chief Operating Officer.’ I look forward to continuing to work with them and believe they will be instrumental in successfully leading Axios toward the next 25 years of transforming access to healthcare. With our exceptionally strong senior leadership team in place, we will continue to focus on creating long-term value for our stakeholders, clients, and most importantly, our patients.”

Executive bios and photographs of the top leadership team at Axios are available here click link

Ends

“Malaysia, with regards to healthcare overall, is ahead of the game. Digital healthcare has been a strategic priority for them since the start,” says Roshel Jayasundera, Senior Director, Global Consulting.

Listen to learn more from our latest digital conference hosted in Malaysia titled, ‘The Role of Digital Healthcare in Providing Holistic Support Solutions Beyond the Hospital Setting.’ 

Join Roshel and Director of Digital Health, Raphael Itah, as they speak to Audrey Raj, host of the Business Station, BFM 89.9 in Malaysia, about the why digital healthcare is so crucial in Malaysia, and around the world, and how it can improve treatment outcomes.

With hundreds of healthcare leaders in attendance, we had a great time learning and sharing our insights during this week’s ASEAN HEALTHCARE TRANSFORMATION SUMMIT 2022 in Malaysia. Our Senior Director, Global Consulting, Roshel Jayasundera, and Director of Digital, Raphael Itah, shared learnings from our Patient Support Programs in Asia on leveraging technology in the connected health era.

We look forward to working with clients and partners across the region to help transform their approach to access and care delivery through digitalization.

Click here to download a report on digital trends in healthcare access.

Our Senior Director, Greater MENA, Anas Nofal joined an esteemed panel of experts at ISPOR SAUDI ARABIA to discuss the value of Patient Support Programs (PSPs) in driving positive medical outcomes for patients.

Anas shared learnings from our PSPs across the MENA region on how such programs can be used to enable patient and system-level cost savings, while improving medical outcomes.

The session was moderated by Dr. Abdullah Alanazi, Assistant Professor, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, and Director of the Health Sciences Research Unit at Al-Jouf University in Saudi Arabia.

Visit https://ispor-saudi.com/ for more information.