The trend: Healthcare providers want more support from pharma companies—but that doesn’t have to come in the form of in-person sales meetings, according to the findings of a recent survey from CMI Media Group and Impiricus. 1,000 US clinicians across oncology, gastroenterology, dermatology, and primary care were polled in February.

What providers do and don’t want from pharma: They’re looking for the latest data on new drugs and resources that will help their patients save money on medications. Educational support (43%) was the most cited response when clinicians were asked how pharma companies can better support them. This includes published clinical trial updates and information on drug interactions and side effects.

• 39% said they’d like more information on insurance coverage for medications and if the drugmaker has a financial assistance or copay program for patients.

But they don’t desire more sales calls from pharma reps.

• Far fewer clinicians (16%) reported wanting more in-person support from pharma companies.

Zooming out: Pharma reps have gotten less access to doctors' offices and hospitals over the years. Providers are strapped for time, and the pandemic ushered in an era of pharma sales efforts shifting to digital channels such as video, email, and social media. Now, some providers won’t take any in-person meetings from reps, while others have significantly reduced the frequency of visits.