Excellence in Communications via Meetings

Summary of work

Psoriasis is a chronic disease associated with considerable clinical, psychological and financial burdens. Over the last decade, breakthrough biologic treatments such as ustekinumab have dramatically expanded management options for physicians. However, dermatologists require an in-depth understanding of the disease pathophysiology in order to appreciate the benefits of these new therapies. More recently, with the approval of ustekinumab in psoriatic arthritis, it was also important to share these understandings with a new rheumatology audience. It was essential to upskill both clinician groups and provide opportunities for peer-to-peer learnings to ensure appropriate, effective and patient-centric management in this therapy area. 

Through an innovative, high-science medical education programme of events, the latest clinical advances were communicated effectively and made relevant to clinical practice. Together with a Therapy Area Steering Committee (TASC) of leading dermatology and rheumatology KOLs, the PEARLS programme in 2013 included 12 meetings, with over 1,700 participants, across a range of locations and audiences. These varied from large stand-alone meetings and congress symposia, to intimate centre of excellence and TASC meetings, each receiving excellent feedback with promising ‘take home’ learnings for clinicians. Webcasts and materials were disseminated to a wider audience through the PEARLS platform (www.pearlsprogramme.com), with 3,408 registered users.

Judges comments

This was a well-executed and creative programme. A great example of an integrated medical education programme rather than single symposium.