Empowering Women of Childbearing Age: A Patient-HCP Multidisciplinary Collaboration to Enhance Care for WoCBA

Women of childbearing age (WoCBA) living with chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis, psoriasis, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis continue to face significant healthcare challenges, despite rapid advancements in the medical field. More than ever, identifying how to enhance the healthcare experience of these women is a priority.

With that in mind, UCB partnered with patients representing multiple chronic diseases and specialist healthcare professionals (HCPs) spanning rheumatology, neurology, dermatology, psychology, and obstetric medicine across the globe. Together, we discussed how we can address challenges faced by women of childbearing age living with various chronic diseases and proposed comprehensive solutions.

Four primary unmet needs in the healthcare journey of women of childbearing age living with chronic disease were identified: a lack of patient support, insufficient specialist discussions, suboptimal coordination of the care pathway, and the need to better empower women.

To face those barriers, a powerful collaboration between patients and healthcare professionals across multiple therapeutic areas is the cornerstone of progress. Together, their combined efforts create a synergy that goes beyond individual therapeutic area, making the journey towards solutions for chronic conditions in WoCBA far more impactful. By actively working together, we not only enhance our understanding but also pave the way for tailored and effective solutions, ultimately elevating the standard of WoCBA patient care. In the dynamic workshop environment, participants pinpointed critical steps, including the development of comprehensive information resources for HCPs and patients. The focus extended to strengthening collaboration among specialist HCPs through a multidisciplinary team approach and the establishment of patient peer support groups.

At UCB, we are committed to continue collaborating with expert groups, patients, and HCPs. Our goal is to improve the healthcare experience for WoCBA who are living with chronic diseases.