Turning the Page on Hardcopy Risk Management Plan Educational Materials: Digitalization Made Possible

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Medicine
• Health Informatics
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Traditional paper-based Risk Management Plan Educational Materials (RMP EMs) are standard for communicating drug safety information.
• The healthcare sector is increasingly adopting digital tools for education and awareness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and end-user experience of distributing electronic RMP EMs (e-RMP) in Singapore.
• To evaluate the benefits of digital RMP EMs compared to traditional paper-based methods.

Main Methods:

• Novartis Singapore conducted a pilot study on e-RMP distribution.
• A post-implementation survey was administered to healthcare professionals (HCPs) to gather user feedback.
• Analysis of end-user preferences and experiences with e-RMP.

Main Results:

• A pilot study demonstrated the feasibility of distributing electronic RMP EMs.
• Post-implementation, a survey revealed a general preference for e-RMP among HCPs and patients.
• e-RMP significantly reduces the time for disseminating updated safety information.

Conclusions:

• Digital distribution of RMP EMs offers significant advantages over paper-based materials, improving the timeliness of safety communication.
• Successful digitalization requires collaboration among regulatory authorities, pharmaceutical companies, HCPs, patients, and caregivers.
• The Novartis Singapore e-RMP case study highlights the value and challenges of transitioning to digital risk minimization measures.