Communicating with HCPs through AI takes finesse, flexibility and the human touch

In our cover story this month, Danny Buckland looks at how AI’s influence is growing across drug discovery, clinical trials and supply chains, but that it doesn’t provide HCPs with that all-important peer-to-peer discussion and sharing of opinions.

As Danny says: “SciLife research forecasts that AI applications could generate between $350bn and $410bn in annual value for pharmaceutical companies by 2025.

“The floodgates have already opened and machine learning, social media targeting, AI-driven research, smart algorithms and advanced graphics are being used across multiple channels in the drive to connect with HCPs.

“While the accelerants of hyper-coded software and lightning-fast microprocessors offer bewildering engagement potential, their ability to understand and respond to the human condition remains an inflexion point.” Read more on page 28.

Also in this issue is an article by Costas Saratsis and Suzanne Bobadilla from VML Health, showcasing the highlights at this year’s ASCO Meeting, with ‘hot’ tumours, breast cancer breakthroughs and holistic treatment as the standouts at this year’s event.

They wrote: “More than 40,000 physicians, researchers, technologists and health marketers converged on Chicago earlier this month for ASCO 2025 – and they brought with them a sense of urgency.

“All attendees shared a vested interest in the rapidly evolving cancer treatment landscape. Nowhere was the vastness of that landscape more evident than the exhibit hall, in which 526 organisations – pharma companies, of course, but also AI firms, hospital networks and advocacy groups – pitched the part they could play in improving treatment.

“The signal this sent? That cancer care is no longer strictly a medical play. Only in concert with colleagues across disciplines and platforms can it be defeated.” Find out more on page 24.

Our next issue, in July/August 2025, will look at patient activation – measuring patients’ knowledge, confidence and ability to manage their own health. If you would like to make your voice heard on this topic, please get in touch at sales@pmlive.com

I hope you enjoy this issue!

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