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Team Viz

Life Sciences

Apr 03, 2024

​​Unite Behind a Shared Vision: Defining Our AI Future

Reflecting on Insights from the Reuters Pharma USA Conference

In a panel discussion at the Reuters Pharma USA Conference, industry experts converged to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) within the pharmaceutical industry. Moderated by Justin Molavi, Director of Commercial Strategy and Insights at Genentech, the dialogue explored the current successes, challenges, and future potential of AI integration for the pharmaceutical industry. Joined by panelists Diane West (VP, AI & Analytics Products, Genmab), Kallie Carter (Senior Director, Head of Oncology Omnichannel Marketing, Eisai), and Nina Binetti (Vice President, Marketing, Viz.ai), the conversation illuminated how pharma can effectively unite around AI and adopt it into their organization’s clinical, enterprise, and commercial strategies.

Achievements and AI Adoption Initiatives

The panelists emphasized the importance of AI integration in shortening the pharmaceutical value chain and fostering innovation. They discussed ongoing initiatives and proof of concepts across R&D and commercial activities, highlighting the need for a culture that promotes AI advancement.

AI’s potential to enhance customer-centric approaches and revolutionize traditional marketing strategies was a key point of discussion. The panelists urged industry stakeholders to leverage AI to gain deeper insights from vast datasets and create value for customers.

Additionally, AI was recognized for its role in improving connections between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare practitioners (HCPs). For example, Viz.ai’s AI-powered platform facilitates patient identification and streamlines clinical workflows, ultimately allowing physicians to better identify patients whose disease can be treated with available therapies.

An example of this is Viz.ai embarking on a partnership with a major pharmaceutical company two years ago on Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) – a rare but manageable disease where up to 85% of patients have been undiagnosed.1 Viz.ai created a new algorithm, the Viz HCM module, which automatically reviews routine electrocardiograms (ECGs) from across a health system to identify suspected HCM cases and notifies the appropriate cardiologists and care teams on the Viz mobile application. The Viz HCM module has already made huge strides in addressing undiagnosed cases of HCM. In one example, a woman who had been living with undetected HCM for 10 years was identified and diagnosed by her care team within 6 weeks via the Viz HCM platform.2 “Think about the lives of families that you make such a difference on. patients’ lives and patient outcomes,” said Nina Binetti. “Put the patient at the focal point.”

Addressing Challenges and Promoting Organizational Adoption

The panelists addressed resistance to change within organizations, emphasizing the importance of overcoming fear and fostering a growth mindset. They encouraged embracing innovation and viewing failures as learning opportunities, drawing parallels with adaptability demonstrated during challenging times such as the pandemic.

Piloting AI initiatives and garnering organizational buy-in were highlighted as crucial steps in fostering AI adoption. The panelists stressed the importance of approaching AI adoption with openness and a willingness to embrace transformation.

Leadership Support and Developing AI Competency

Strong leadership support was identified as essential for driving AI initiatives forward. Panelists emphasized the need for alignment between leadership and employees at all levels, championing a culture of experimentation and learning.

To address skill gaps, the panelists recommended a combination of internal training initiatives and strategic partnerships. They emphasized the importance of continuous learning and collaboration to navigate the complexities of AI integration successfully.

Promoting Internal Acceptance and Stakeholder Engagement

The discussion concluded with insights into promoting internal acceptance and stakeholder engagement in AI initiatives. Panelists stressed the importance of demonstrating tangible results and aligning AI initiatives with stakeholders’ priorities and objectives. They highlighted the value proposition of AI and the significance of cross-functional collaboration in driving successful adoption.

Looking Ahead: Embracing an AI-Defined Future

As the pharmaceutical industry continues to embrace AI as a driver of innovation and growth, the key takeaways underscore the importance of visionary leadership, organizational agility, and collaboration. By uniting behind a shared vision and harnessing AI’s transformative capabilities, the industry can redefine healthcare’s future and enhance patient outcomes.

To learn more, join our upcoming webinar on April 25 — Point-of-Care AI: The New Imperative for Pharma Commercial Strategy — and hear how pharma is leveraging AI to drive brand success and improve delivery of care to diverse patient populations.

1 Maron B et al (2022) JACC
2 Viz.ai HCM workflow study, 2023