Factors Contributing to Best Practices for Patient Involvement in Pharmacovigilance in Europe: A Stakeholder Analysis

Introduction Involving patients in decision making adds value in the context of pharmacovigilance (PV). This added value goes beyond participation in spontaneous reporting systems for adverse drug reactions. However, there is a gap between allowing patients to report and actual patient involvement. Views regarding best practices from regulators, patient organizations and pharmaceutical companies could help increase and improve patient involvement in PV. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the factors contributing to best practices for patient involvement in PV and to develop a definition of patient involvement based on a qualitative multistakeholder study across Europe. Methods A literature review was conducted to map the field of study and obtain insights for the elaboration of an interview guide. Subsequently, patient representatives, members of the pharmaceutical industry and regulators were invited to participate in interviews. These interviews were analyzed using -NVIVO (R) software and employing reflective thematic analysis. Results A total of 20 interviews were conducted with representatives at both the national and European levels. The best practices identified were engagement from the start, face-to-face communication, a full circle of feedback, same-level partners, structured involvement and guidelines, establishing common goals, patient education and empowerment, and developing trust and balance. These activities can be implemented via deep collaboration among stakeholders. A definition of patient involvement was constructed in accordance with the input of all stakeholder groups, which reflects the involvement of all types of patients at all levels of the decision-making process. Conclusion In this study, we developed a definition for patient involvement based on qualitative interviews. The factors contributing to best practices for patient involvement were mentioned across stakeholder groups and aimed to stimulate patient involvement in PV. Patients are eager to become equal partners and to engage effortlessly in the same manner as other stakeholders.