Over 92 % of people polled in a recent survey for EMEA say they are either satisfied or very satisfied with their overall interaction with the EMEA, with the remaining 7 % expressing neither satisfaction nor dissatisfaction.
Patient and consumer representatives expressed particularly high satisfaction levels in relation to:
the positive consequences of this interaction for the organisations they represent, such as their ability to pass on information to patients about new medicines and treatment options available
improved relations with health authorities and healthcare professionals (77 % satisfied or very satisfied)
their perception of whether the EMEA actually takes into account their comments and other contributions to EMEA activities (74 % satisfied or very satisfied).
The survey was conducted with representatives and experts working in not-for-profit organisations that represent patients and consumers of medicinal products at European Union level. All groups were involved in one or more EMEA activities during the year 2007. Twenty pan-EU patients’ and consumers’ organisations collectively representing millions of European patients, currently participate in EMEA activities.
The activities in which they are involved include reviewing public summaries of scientific assessment reports and package leaflets, to ensure the information is comprehensible and providing their insight as users of medicines to EMEA scientific bodies.
Further analysis of the findings of the survey is contained in a report published today, which provides extensive information on the EMEA’s progress with its programme for integrating patients and consumers in its work.
At its meeting on 12 June 2008, the EMEA Management Board welcomed the report and the survey results, as they confirm that the Agency’s efforts to involve patients and consumers in areas of considerable importance to them are progressing well.
Feedback obtained from the survey has also helped to identify areas where the involvement of patients and consumers with EMEA can be further developed. Including further consultation during product evaluation and during preparation of guidelines. EMEA will review the current procedures in place for the involvement of patients in the preparation of product-related information, and will extend the scope of its exercises.
For More Information
To read the full report on the survey click Here.
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