Rare Diseases and Orphan Drugs

Summary of work

As an industry we create a lot of materials for patients without truly engaging them in the process. Sanofi Genzyme sets out to work differently. To be the facilitators of materials written by patients for patients. Taking this approach taught us something that all medical communicators know in our hearts. If we give patients the chance to tell their stories and we help broadcast their stories to others, there is a reality and relevance in their narrative which the rest of us cannot hope to match.

Ultimately, the success, reach and impact of the materials created is down to the patients who were at the centre of the project and their desire to help others in similar situations.

Judges' comments

We loved the use of the patient in this patient communications work - so simple, but it makes sense. So it’s not surprising that the project had a significant reach and good results on raising awareness.