Here’s to new beginnings and breaking new ground. I’m absolutely delighted to take on the role of editor of PharmaTimes, on both a personal and professional level. I’m particularly thrilled to take the helm at what is shaping up to be an incredibly exciting and innovative – albeit uncertain – era for industry, the NHS and patients.
Already there are big developments for 2019. In this issue, we take a look at what’s expected for the life sciences industry, with innovations in precision medicine, drug pricing pressures and new applications for artificial intelligence said to be key drivers of change (p26). Also of critical importance to pharma – can the new PPRS live up to its promises, particularly against the backdrop of an uncertain Brexit (p20)?
Our cover feature considers new opportunities for the industry to engage with patients meaningfully (p31); elsewhere we take a look at how the NHS is hoping to tackle disease with a greater focus on population health, and the place for pharma within this changing landscape (p16).
We also celebrate the first ever PharmaTimes Medical & Scientific Excellence Awards, a new event designed to highlight excellence within medical and scientific affairs (p34), as well as 25 years of the PharmaTimes Marketer of the Year competition and the return of the PharmaTimes Sales Awards (p36).
Congratulations to all finalists and winners and a huge thank you to our sponsors – the response to these events has been immense, highlighting the continued appetite to reward the incredible talent evident across all disciplines.
I hope you enjoy the issue!
