The trend: Most newly diagnosed chronic condition patients feel unsupported and overwhelmed with anxiety as they begin their treatment journeys, according to a recent Infinitus survey of 500 US adults with a chronic condition.

Digging into the data: Patients are overburdened at diagnosis, and most leave their appointments still seeking clarity.

• 76% said they couldn’t take in everything the doctor said.
• 75% acknowledged they had unanswered questions after speaking with a doctor about their diagnosis.
• 83% of people who had follow-up questions thought of them when a doctor wasn’t present.

Patients also face barriers in accessing care and treatment following a diagnosis.

• 46% experienced delays in starting treatment due to insurance or cost issues.
• 22% said getting insurance approval was the greatest challenge to starting a regimen.
• 36% had trouble comprehending their medication regimen and side effects.

Why it matters: Patients who feel unsupported before even beginning their treatment process are at heightened risk of worse health outcomes, delays in care, and increased psychological distress. For instance, not understanding the need for the medication, fear of side effects, and affordability are among the top reasons driving medication nonadherence, per the American Medical Association.

Implications for pharma brands: Drugmakers can’t replace a doctor’s guidance, but they can offer valuable information and support between visits and throughout the patient journey.

Pharma companies should use their direct-to-consumer online platforms to offer cost-saving resources and answers to medication questions. Drugmakers should also proactively equip doctors with information on chronic condition medicines and treatment courses to better prepare for patient discussions around the time of diagnosis.

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