Tag Archive for: Patient Advocacy

Complete Access to Treatment Across Europe: EUROPSO Calls for Addressing Inequities in Psoriasis Healthcare

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Brussels, May 29, 2024 – EUROPSO, the European Federation of Psoriasis Associations, is calling attention to the pressing issue of healthcare disparities faced by individuals living with psoriasis across Europe. As part of European Psoriasis Week 2024, EUROPSO emphasizes the critical need for equitable access to treatment and care for those affected by this chronic autoimmune disease.

Psoriasis, a long-lasting condition characterized by patches of abnormal skin, not only affects physical well-being but also poses significant risks to overall health and life expectancy. Recent studies have revealed that individuals with moderate to severe psoriasis have a life expectancy that is, on average, five years shorter than those without the condition [1]. The heightened risk of cardiovascular disease among individuals with psoriasis contributes significantly to this disparity [1].

Despite the recognition of psoriasis as a risk factor for various comorbidities, including cardiovascular disease and mental health disorders, there remains a concerning lack of visibility of psoriasis within healthcare policies and decision-making processes. This invisibility translates into disparities in market access decisions for psoriasis therapies across Europe [2].

A comprehensive analysis of market access decisions in several European countries underscores the inconsistencies and discrepancies in the assessment of psoriasis treatments. Variations in criteria such as appropriate comparator therapy, patient population, and economic data lead to unequal access to therapies, leaving many individuals with limited options for managing their condition [3].

EUROPSO President Jan Koren emphasizes, “Psoriasis should not be invisible to policymakers and healthcare stakeholders. It is imperative that we address the disparities in access to treatment and care for individuals living with psoriasis across Europe. As we strive towards the goals outlined in the EU Healthier Together Initiative, including the reduction of premature mortality from non-communicable diseases and the promotion of mental health and well-being, we must ensure that the needs of psoriasis patients are not overlooked.”

The EU Healthier Together Initiative, launched by the European Commission, aims to support member states in addressing major non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and reducing health inequalities [4]. While the initiative covers various aspects of healthcare, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and mental health, EUROPSO emphasizes the importance of incorporating psoriasis into this holistic approach to NCD prevention and care.

EUROPSO calls for collaborative efforts among policymakers, healthcare professionals, and patient advocacy groups to prioritize the needs of individuals living with psoriasis. By promoting equitable access to treatment, raising awareness of comorbidities associated with psoriasis, and advocating for policies that support comprehensive disease management, EUROPSO aims to improve the quality of life for psoriasis patients across Europe.

Media Contact: TBC

References:

  1. MyPsoriasisTeam. (n.d.). Does Psoriasis Affect Life Expectancy? Retrieved from https://www.mypsoriasisteam.com/resources/does-psoriasis-affect-life-expectancy#:~:text=Psoriasis%20is%20not%20a%20fatal,shorter%20than%20people%20without%20psoriasis.
  2. Value in Health. (2017). Disparities in Market Access Decision Making About Available Therapies for Psoriasis Across Europe. Retrieved from https://www.valueinhealthjournal.com/article/S1098-3015(17)30403-5/fulltext
  3. National Center for Biotechnology Information. (n.d.). Psoriasis: A Disease with Plenty of Comorbidities: Introduction. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9196664/
  4. European Commission. (n.d.). EU Non-Communicable Diseases Initiative. Retrieved from https://health.ec.europa.eu/non-communicable-diseases/healthier-together-eu-non-communicable-diseases-initiative_en

About EUROPSO: EUROPSO is the European Federation of Psoriasis Associations, representing the interests of people living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis across Europe. EUROPSO works to raise awareness of psoriasis, advocate for improved access to treatment and care, and support research initiatives aimed at advancing the understanding and management of psoriatic diseases.

The EUROPSO podcast series focused on the Epicensus programme

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At the beginning of this year, EUROPSO produced four podcast episodes shedding light on different calls to action from the Epicensus programme, from three perspectives: patients, patient advocates, and medical professionals.

All four episodes are now available for streaming on Spotify and EUROPSO’s YouTube channel.

Despite many improvements in treating and managing psoriasis patients, significant needs still remain unmet. The Epicensus programme brought together three important groups of people: dermatologists, payors, and patient representatives, such as EUROPSO, with a focus on improving the standard of care.

The Epicensus programme achieved consensus across different psoriasis stakeholder groups on the essential changes needed to elevate the standards of care for psoriasis patients across Europe. Collective action is now needed to implement these changes. EUROPSO was proudly represented in this project by Jan Koren, our president.

We partnered with UCB Pharma to challenge the status quo in psoriasis care through the European-wide ‘Epicensus’ programme.

The production of these episodes was financially supported by UCB Biopharma.

To access individual podcast episodes, please click on their title below:

Episode 1: More than skin deep

Episode 2: Education for all

Episode 3: All in this together

Episode 4: Access all areas

Unveiling Psoriasis: A Double Perspective

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EUROPSO Podcast Episode 2

With a blend of personal narratives and professional insights, second episode of Europso Podcast offers a comprehensive exploration of psoriasis from a female perspective, shedding light on the challenges, triumphs, and collaborative efforts in managing this chronic condition.

In this episode supported by Almirall, Europso continues to explore deep into the world of psoriasis from two unique perspectives. Hosted by patient advocate Jelena Misita, guests Tina Koukopoulou, a psoriasis patient, and Dr Martina Burlando, a healthcare professional, share their insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by women with psoriasis.

Tina, a patient advocate from Greece, shares her journey with psoriasis since adolescence, while Dr Burlando, a specialist from Italy, sheds light on her expertise in managing chronic skin conditions.

Tina discusses the evolving impact of psoriasis on her life, from initial diagnosis to managing symptoms and societal stigma. She shares personal experiences of familial support, coping strategies, and the complexities of living with visible skin lesions, particularly as a woman in a society where image matters.

Dr Burlando emphasizes the holistic approach to psoriasis management, considering both physical and emotional well-being. She highlights the importance of patient-provider collaboration, tailored treatment plans, and addressing concerns around family planning and therapy side effects.

The discussion underscores the significance of open communication between patients and healthcare professionals in navigating treatment decisions, managing fears, and optimizing outcomes. Dr Burlando stresses the role of empathy, personalized care, and ongoing support in empowering patients on their psoriasis journey.

The episode concludes with a reminder that while living with psoriasis presents unique challenges, with support, understanding, and proper guidance, it’s a journey that can be managed. Good communication fosters strong patient-provider relationships, paving the way for better treatment outcomes and improved quality of life.

Listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the Europso YouTube channel for more enlightening discussions on managing skin conditions. With Almirall’s support, the podcast aims to provide innovative solutions and improve the lives of those affected by psoriasis.

For listening this episode, please follow this link.