The role of the pharmaceutical industry in promoting patient education

The role of the pharmaceutical industry in patient education consists of information related to products, information related to disease states and stimulation of all parts and partners in patient education. The 'package inserts' have advanced far beyond basic dosage prescribing information and precautions. Audiovisual instruction aids and telephone hot lines are increasingly used. Information on disease states are mainly distributed through the health care providers and patient organisations. They range from tools for special provisions, e.g. foot care in diabetes, up to complete systems for patient education. The stimulating activities range from the funding of education funds or conferences to the organisation of courses for health care professionals up to close cooperation with non-governmental and governmental organisations involved in patient education. The persons involved from industry became highly respected, fully integrated partners in the development of patient education. It is hoped that the commitment of industry in this issue might continue.